Macroencapsulation of Paraffin in a Polymer-Gypsum Composite Using Granulation Technique

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Thermal Engineering
• Construction Technology

Background:

• Traditional gypsum materials have limitations in thermal performance.
• Phase Change Materials (PCMs) offer potential for passive thermal regulation.
• Integrating PCMs into building materials requires effective encapsulation and compatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel gypsum composite incorporating phase change materials (PCMs) and polymers.
• To investigate the thermal properties and mechanical strength of the new material.
• To assess the performance of gypsum boards made with the enhanced material under thermal load.

Main Methods:

• Innovative granulate preparation using a mixture of gypsum, paraffin (PCM), and polymer.
• Encapsulation of PCM within gypsum granules.
• Mechanical strength, screening, and separation tests of the granulate.
• Measurement of thermal conductivity, volumetric heat capacity, and thermal diffusivity.
• Comparative thermal performance testing of gypsum boards with and without the enhanced granules.

Main Results:

• Successful development of a gypsum-PCM-polymer granulate with optimized encapsulation.
• Characterization of the granulate's mechanical properties and thermal performance.
• Gypsum boards incorporating the enhanced granules exhibited superior thermal regulation compared to raw gypsum boards.
• Quantified improvements in heat conductivity, heat capacity, and thermal diffusivity.

Conclusions:

• The developed gypsum composite with encapsulated PCMs and polymers shows significant potential for improving the thermal efficiency of building materials.
• The innovative preparation method ensures effective integration of PCMs within the gypsum matrix.
• The enhanced gypsum boards demonstrate a viable solution for passive temperature control in buildings.