Use of phase change materials thermal energy storage systems for cooling applications in buildings

International audienceSharing of renewable energy and reduction of conventional energy consumption as attempts in ameliorating environmental issues such as global warming became the main concern for current developing scientific engineering research. And, with the remarkable increase in the cooling and heating demand in the building sector world widely, the need of a suitable technology that permits to the improvement of building thermal performance. Utilizing phase change materials (PCM) as thermal energy storage strategies in buildings can meet the potential thermal comfort requirements when selected properly. The current research article presents an overview of different PCM cooling applications in buildings. Active and passive classifications are presented. A summary of the used PCMs and their respective properties are also offered. Studied systems are proved to be efficient in reducing indoor temperature fluctuations and energy demand during cold seasons, with the capability of triggering load reduction or shifting