Experimental investigation of wall thermal-insulation by phase change materials

The enhancement of wall thermal-insulation capability is a key issue in energy conservation for buildings in hot and humid climates, where wall receive the greatest solar heat gain. The objective of the study is to provide insights into a wall thermal-insulation alternative that will improve the thermal performance of wall construction in southeast Turkey.For this purpose, two identical test rooms were designed, constructed, and located nearby in field. One of their walls was covered by PCM-filled polycarbonate covered with transparent material. They were exposed to solar radiation at the same time on typically clear summer days. Experiments have been performed to investigate the effects of adding PCM to conventional hollow thermal-insulation bricks on thermal characteristics of walls. PCM-treated wall had a better daytime thermal insulation effect than one of PCM-untreated. PCM-treated wall can provide more effective indoor heat preservation at night when temperatures fall outdoors.