Laminated Composite High Conductivity Phase Change Material (PCM) Drywall System

Abstract

Laminated composite high conductivity phase change drywall system has been theoretically evaluated. Analysis of the system showed that increases in thermal conductivity did enhance the rate of heat flux by about 15-20% during the phase change processes but there was however no significant differences in the average cumulative energy released. The variations in density also did show slight increase of about 1% in both heat flux and cumulative energy release. As expected the reduction in specific heat capacity did reduce the magnitude of heat flux and cumulative energy since a lower specific heat value affects the amount of heat a material can store or release. The study has shown that it is possible to enhance the heat transfer level in a laminated PCM system but care has to be taken in selecting an appropriate material with minimum impact on the heat storage capability. Experimental investigation is being urged.