Title:
Effect of Phase-Change Materials on Properties of Concrete
Author(s):
Pania Meshgin and Yunping Xi
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
109
Issue:
1
Appears on pages(s):
71-80
Keywords:
compression; drying shrinkage; flexural; phase-change material; thermal conductivity.
DOI:
10.14359/51683572
Date:
1/1/2012
Abstract:
This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of using phase-change materials (PCMs) in portland cement concrete. The objective of this study is to improve the thermal properties of concrete as a structural material. A compression test, flexural test, drying shrinkage test and thermal conductivity test were conducted. PCMs are used in concrete mixtures as both sand replacement and additives. The results revealed that in the replacement method, the loss of compressive strength due to the addition of PCM is not as high as the additive method. For up to 20% sand replacement by PCM, the strength loss is not significant for structural applications. The specific heat of the concrete increased considerably. Thus, the thermal conductivity of the concrete is reduced and the insulation capacity of the concrete is improved. A flexural test, drying shrinkage test, and microstructure analysis provide a good understanding of the PCM-modified concrete. Overall, the results show that it is quite promising to use PCM in concrete to improve its insulation capacity with decreased thermal conductivity and, at the same time, that it is possible to keep the strength loss of the concrete in an acceptable range.