Thermo-physical laboratory analyses of microencapsulated PCMs for thermal energy storage systems

This study investigates the integration of microencapsulated paraffin-wax Phase Change Materials (mPCMs) into cementitious mortars as an innovative Thermal Energy Storage (TES) strategy. Despite their environmental and cost benefits, incorporating mPCMs into mortar poses challenges, particularly in delivering suitable workability and mechanical properties. The research evaluates the impact of water-slurry mPCMs on TES performance in mortar samples with increasing mPCM concentrations. A comprehensive approach is employed to assess thermal properties under diverse conditions, using calorimetric, conductivity, and microthermometric methods. Mechanical and microstructural analyses provide insights into mPCMs' influence on cement matrices. The study examines how mPCMs affect various aspects of mortar, including compressive strength, microstructure, thermal conductivity and latent heat. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of mPCM integration in cementitious binders for TES systems, addressing both thermal and mechanical behaviour. This research supports the development of sustainable heat storage solutions, advancing also more efficient and practical applications of mPCMs in structural building materials and TES systems.