Investigation of the impact of phase-change material usage in building envelopes on energy performance: a case study of wooden structures

In this thesis, in the context of global warming and the climate crisis resulting from energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions reaching critical levels, the potential for using phase change materials (PCMs), which passively store thermal energy, in buildings was investigated. Within the building sector—accounting for a significant share of energy consumption—international policies aimed at enhancing energy efficiency were examined. Design strategies to reduce the carbon footprint were evaluated based on energy-efficient building standards such as nearly zero-energy buildings and passive houses.Based on best practice examples from the literature and research findings, the advantages of phase change materials in improving indoor thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption were addressed. The validity of this theoretical framework was tested through both simulation and experimental studies. In the simulation study, the potential effects of employing PCMs in buildings were investigated. During the experimental phase, the performance of two wooden cabins was compared: one featuring only insulation and the other incorporating insulation with PCMs. Temperature data recorded by sensors placed on wall surfaces as well as in the interior and exterior environments—with the aid of a specially manufactured datalogger—were analyzed comparatively.The results demonstrate that PCMs reduce energy loads during both heating and cooling periods and provide a more balanced distribution of indoor temperature. These findings offer important insights for developing sustainable design strategies in buildings.