Development of a process for dimensioning and manufacturing PCM-equipped components with integrated heat buffer function

The aim of the recently launched research project at the IHD is to develop a technology to improve the thermal performance of window and door constructions to prevent thermally induced damage and condensation and to increase thermal comfort. This is to be solved by equipping building elements with PCM (phase change materials) and by developing an associated procedure for simulation-based, component-specific dimensioning.

PCMs, often referred to as latent heat storages, are materials that are characterised by a phase change (solid/liquid) in a temperature range that is favourable for later use. For example, paraffins or salt hydrates are used. When the phase change temperature is reached, there is no further increase or decrease in temperature for a certain period of time, despite the continuous input or extraction of energy, because the amount of heat added or removed is stored in the form of enthalpy of fusion or made available as released enthalpy of solidification.

The great advantage here is that the energy "hidden" in the phase change is very large compared to the amount of energy that can be stored in the material in a sensitive manner (by increasing the temperature). For example, it takes just as much energy to melt ice that is 0 °C cold as it does to heat the same amount of water that is 0 °C cold to 80 °C.

The PCM equipment gives the building elements a heat storage or heat buffer function. To prove the effects achieved, laboratory samples and full-scale demonstrator components are being dimensioned, manufactured and evaluated.

The project with the funding code 49MF220199 is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection within the framework of the funding guideline INNO-KOM module "Market-oriented research and development".

Contact person:
Paul Bergelt 
paul.bergelt@ihd-dresden.de