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Smart Materials: Cementitious Mortars and PCM Mechanical and Thermal Characterization
Federico Orsini1, Paola Marrone1, Silvia Santini1
1Department of Architecture, Roma Tre University, 00153 Rome, Italy.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 7, 2021
Summary
This study explores using Phase Change Materials (PCM) in cement mixes to create sustainable building components. Adding PCM enhances thermal insulation but slightly reduces mechanical strength, making them suitable for masonry.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Construction
- Building Physics
Background:
- Construction sector significantly contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, necessitating sustainable material innovations.
- Smart materials, including Phase Change Materials (PCM), are emerging as key strategies to mitigate climate change impacts in construction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an innovative, lightweight, and thin building component with high energy performance.
- To investigate the potential of incorporating Phase Change Materials (PCM) into cement-based mixes.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of a traditional cement mix against two innovative mixes containing 3% and 7% PCM.
- Characterization of mechanical properties (compressive strength) and thermal performance (insulating properties).
Main Results:
- Incorporating PCM into cement mixes reduces mechanical strength; however, mixes with 3% and 7% PCM are suitable for M5 and M15 masonry structures.
- The developed cement-PCM mixes exhibit good thermal insulating properties.
Conclusions:
- Phase Change Materials (PCM) offer a viable route to enhance the energy efficiency of cement-based building components.
- Further research can optimize PCM integration to balance mechanical and thermal performance for broader construction applications.
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