buildings

Review
Phase Change Materials for Building Applications:
A Thorough Review and New Perspectives
Abderrahman Madad 1, *, Taoufiq Mouhib 2 and Azeddine Mouhsen 1
1 Laboratoire de Rayonnement-Matière et Instrumentation (LRMI), University Hassan 1,
Settat 26000, Morocco; Az.Mouhsen@gmail.com
2 Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire des Sciences Appliquées (LISA), University Hassan 1, Settat 26000, Morocco;
taoufiq.mouhib@gmail.com
* Correspondence: Abderrahim.Madad@gmail.com




Received: 7 March 2018; Accepted: 17 April 2018; Published: 25 April 2018


Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive report on the state of the art on
the technologies used in the modeling of energy storage systems by latent heat in buildings, and
draw lines on perspectives on the technology evolution in this sector. In the first part, the emphasis
is put mainly on the two main lines of research: experimental and numerical. In the second part,
the main trends of research in this sector have been followed. An anatomical operation of more than
100 documents (published between 2006 and 2016), on the behavior of storage systems integrating
Phase Change Materials (PCM), covering a large number of configurations treatment and their
applications in thermal comfort of buildings area, has shown that the information published in this
topic are very diverse and enormous, but in many cases are insufficient. The results show that, with
suitable design, the PCM can contribute to the reduction of costs and achieve energy reductions in
buildings, guaranteeing a comfortable interior environment. The evaluation of this multitude of
documents gave the following remark: The effectiveness of any proposed approach to a numerical
study is a concept with ambiguities, depending upon the method used, its precision, the problem to
be modeled, the convergence criteria and the input parameters choice. The diversity of experimental
conditions and the variety of results revealed that the published works are not directly comparable.

Keywords: latent heat storage with PCM; energy storage modeling; simulation tools for integration
of PCMs in buildings; thermal storage review; application of PCM in buildings

1. Introduction
Energy consumption is a challenge in many usages. That is why there is a great trend in research,
nowadays, to the possibility of finding means and solutions for energy savings and reductions in
greenhouse gas emissions (GES) [1]. In this context, finding new outlets to exploit, store and reuse
renewable energies becomes an urgent necessity, first for reducing energy consumption and secondly,
for improving indoor thermal comfort.
One of the approaches to fulfilling this objective is the use of high latent melting heat change
materials (PCM) to increase the thermal mass of buildings and to store energy from solar radiation as
latent heat [2]. These materials have received an increased attention due to their ability to store large
amounts of thermal energy within narrow temperature ranges. This property makes them ideal for
storage of passive heat in building envelopes [3].
Indeed, when incorporated into building lightweight envelopes, PCMs can increase thermal
inertia of these envelopes and therefore, provide a natural regulation of internal temperature,
which leads to a reduction in indoor temperature fluctuations, an increase in energy efficiency and,
consequently, an improvement of thermal comfort for occupants. The bases of working of these

Buildings 2018, 8, 63; doi:10.3390/buildings8050063 www.mdpi.com/journal/buildings

 Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 16

systems are generally built on the storage of the heat of phase change at quasi-constant temperature,
while these materials change phase (as shown in Figure 1).
For applications in buildings at low temperatures (0 °C to 100 °C), only phase changes
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 2 of 17
solid/liquid and solid/solid are attractive for use in thermal energy storage systems, since, they imply
only a small change in volume during phase transition (less than 10%) [3].
systems This
are research
generallyprovides a global
built on the reading
storage of the
of the heat of publications
phase changeon systems that deal
at quasi-constant with the
temperature,
behavior of PCM in building envelopes, and highlights
while these materials change phase (as shown in Figure 1). some limitations of these systems and related
research topics.

Figure 1. Diagram of temperature change through heating and cooling of a Phase Change Material
Figure 1. Diagram of temperature change through heating and cooling of a Phase Change Material
(PCM) (general case).
(PCM) (general case).

For applications
2. Latent in buildings
Thermal Energy at low
Storage temperatures
Systems: (0 ◦ C to 100 ◦ C), only phase changes solid/liquid
Key Elements
and solid/solid are attractive for use in thermal energy storage systems, since, they imply only a small
2.1. Thermal
change Comfort:
in volume Regulations
during and International
phase transition Standards
(less than 10%) [3].
This research provides
A sustainable buildingaenvelope
global reading
design of the publications
should on systems
not only consider energythat dealissues—as
saving with the
behavior
claimed by several regulations and International Standards/programs [4–6]—but have related
of PCM in building envelopes, and highlights some limitations of these systems and to be
research topics.
consistent with high thermal comfort levels. In this context PCM materials play a crucial role, being
effective for stabilizing indoor temperature fluctuations. Several parameters can affect this complex
2. Latent Thermal Energy Storage Systems: Key Elements
equilibrium in which the man is at the center:
2.1.
 Thermal Comfort: Regulations and International Standards
The design,
 AThe conditioning
sustainable of the building
building envelopespace,
design should not only consider energy saving issues—as
 The ambient relative humidity,
claimed by several regulations and International Standards/programs [4–6]—but have to be consistent
 The
with highspeed of the
thermal air, levels. In this context PCM materials play a crucial role, being effective for
comfort
 The overall energy performance
stabilizing indoor temperature of the building,
fluctuations. Several parameters can affect this complex equilibrium in
which Nevertheless,
the man is at the
the center:
constraint is that we must find a compromise between the reduction of energy
consumption and the optimization of all these conditions [4]. This operation requires several actions:
• The design,
the energy audit to describe and analyze the energy consumption, a selection of insulating building
• materials,
The conditioning of the building space,
the installation of a ventilation system, etc.
• The
In ambient relative
this context, the humidity,
use of renewable energy sources according to the standards required by
• international
The speedlaws
of the air,
and research programs, such as the European Horizon 2020 and the environmental
• standards
The overall energy performance
of ASHRAE [5,6], becomesofan
the building,
optimal outcome to address these issues.
For a concrete case, and thanks to the efforts of some countries, the global level of exploitation
Nevertheless, the constraint is that we must find a compromise between the reduction of energy
of renewable energy reaches a rate of 6.2%, for example, Italy reached 7.9% of solar energy in the
consumption and the optimization of all these conditions [4]. This operation requires several actions:
exploitation of its energy and 7% in Germany [6]. In general, 164 countries have renewable energy
the energy audit to describe and analyze the energy consumption, a selection of insulating building
targets and 145 countries have put in place mechanisms and strategies to support renewable energies
materials, the installation of a ventilation system, etc.
[6].
In this context, the use of renewable energy sources according to the standards required by
international laws and research programs, such as the European Horizon 2020 and the environmental
standards of ASHRAE [5,6], becomes an optimal outcome to address these issues.
For a concrete case, and thanks to the efforts of some countries, the global level of exploitation
of renewable energy reaches a rate of 6.2%, for example, Italy reached 7.9% of solar energy in the
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 3 of 17

exploitation of its energy and 7% in Germany [6]. In general, 164 countries have renewable energy targets
and 145 countries have put in place mechanisms and strategies to support renewable energies [6].

2.2. Thermal Energy Storage Systems by Latent Heat

The objective of Thermal Energy Storage Systems (TESS-PCM) is to detach energy production
from the energy resource, so its choice for a given application depends on several parameters, including
storage time, cost, temperature, storage power and heat loss.
These systems, as reported in the literature, have become key elements of the future energy
smart grid. The ability of these materials to reduce peak loads is much documented [7,8]; several
researchers have indicated that insulation strengthened by PCM can reduce up to 40% of the cooling
loads generated by walls during peak hours [9].
Several TESS-PCM types have been developed in recent decades and numerous storage technology
proposals have been made to facilitate the use of thermal energy at different scales [10,11]. These
innovative systems offer a particularly interesting outcome in the contribution to the GES reduction
solution used in current systems. Likewise, to the reduction of the frequency of internal temperature
variations of the air and maintaining the ambient temperature near the temperature of the comfort for
a sufficient period, by storing large quantities of thermal energy in the buildings envelope [12].
The realization of a TESS-PCM model goes through several steps:

• The model design,

• Realization of the simulation system,
• Analysis of the simulation results, in particular: the storage capacity, the efficiency of the
charge/release and the heat transfer,
• Make changes to the edges,
• Modeling of the alternative aspect of the system,
• Comparison of the preliminary design with the modified one,
• Implementation of a proposal on the TESS-PCM configuration for a future test.

Nevertheless, improving the thermal inertia of buildings using TESS-PCMs depends on a number
of parameters, such as climate, orientation, design, building geometry and compactness, properties of
PCMs used, glazing performance, etc. [13,14], which makes the use of these systems more complex.
In order to overcome this problem and find a compromise between the optimal properties of PCM
and ideal building characteristics, the modeling and the simulation of effects and thermal behavior of
PCMs prove essential.
With the computer technology progression, many computer simulations have been achieved to
study the impact of these materials in real buildings. These techniques provide fast and inexpensive
processes [15], though they are paradigmatically complex. This complexity ascends, on the one hand,
from the treatment of nonlinear phenomena, which simultaneously changes in time and space, and,
on the other hand, from the large number of parameters involved in the studies of these systems,
which imposes several restrictions on the conditions of these studies, either in transient regime or in
two-dimensional problems [16].

2.3. Around the Walls of Buildings

TESS-PCM is an economical and promising solution for the environment; it finds a wider use in
improving the energy efficiency of buildings:

• Insulation supplement for the improvement of the inertia of buildings walls,

• Thermal management systems: Passive conditioning, solar power stations, etc.,
• Textile and clothing sector,
• Automotive engine cooling,
 Buildings 2018, 8, 63 4 of 17

Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 16

• Thermal protection of electronic components and circuits: Electronic chips to avoid act at
extreme temperatures.
the building envelope is one of the most studied elements of research and regulation, due to its
Agri-food and healthcare industry: Transportation and storage of perishable food, medicines
relatively more effective heat exchange area and more convenient implementation, also, it offers a
and pharmaceuticals. Building envelopes are not only structures, but they also provide protection
huge opportunity
Buildings 2018, 8, xfor
FORreduction
against external weather
PEER REVIEWin energy consumption (see Figure 2) and demand, it4 permits
conditions while taking into account local climatic requirements. For that,
of 16 the
energy the
costs controlenvelope
building and optimization theof energy efficiency,
elementsenvironmental and economic impact. The
the building envelope isis one
one ofof the most
most studied
studied elements of research
of research and
and regulation,
regulation, due to
due to its
its
methods of integrating
relatively
relatively more effective
more PCM
effective heatinto
heat envelopes,
exchange
exchange area and
area identified
more
and more in implementation,
convenient theimplementation,
convenient literature, also,
arealso,
ittheit direct
offers a huge
offers a method
opportunity
“immersion” for
and indirect
huge opportunity reduction in energy consumption
method “attachment”
for reduction (see Figure
[17] (as(see
in energy consumption 2) and
represented demand,
Figure 2) and it
in Figure
demand,permits the energy
3).it permits the
costs control
energy and optimization
costs control of energy
and optimization efficiency,
of energy environmental
efficiency, and economic
environmental impact. The
and economic methods
impact. The
of integrating PCM into envelopes, identified in the literature, are the direct method “immersion”
methods of integrating PCM into envelopes, identified in the literature, are the direct method and
indirect method “attachment” [17] (as represented in Figure 3).
“immersion” and indirect method “attachment” [17] (as represented in Figure 3).

Figure 2. The energy storage density (for a material heating from◦ 20 °C ◦to 26 °C).
Theenergy
Figure2.2.The
Figure energystorage
storagedensity
density(for
(foraamaterial
materialheating
heatingfrom
from 20
20 °CCto
to26
26°C).
C).

Figure 3. Researches in PCM process: (a) study in materials properties, (b) Methods of integrating of
PCM into building envelopes. Adopted from [18].
Figure 3. Researches in PCM process: (a) study in materials properties, (b) Methods of integrating of
Figure 3. Researches in PCM process: (a) study in materials properties, (b) Methods of integrating of
PCM into building envelopes. Adopted from [18].
Much
PCM into work has
building been developed
envelopes. Adoptedinfrom
recent years on insulation [19,20], and thermal inertia [21–
[18].
23]. A number of researchers have proposed the inclusion of PCM to replace the masonry walls in
passiveMuch work
walls has beenactive
[24,25], developed in recent
andyears on [27,28]
insulation [19,20], andofthermal inertiaoptimal
[21–23].
Much work
A number ofhas beenthe
researchers developed walls
have proposed in[26]
recent hybrid
yearsofon
the inclusion PCM
with
insulation the aim
to replace[19,20],
constituting
the masonryandwalls
thermal inertia [21–
in passive
visions on improving the energy and thermal performance of buildings. These performances depend
23]. A number of researchers
walls [24,25], have
[26]proposed the inclusion theof PCM to replace the masonry
visions onwalls in
mainly on the the activetarget
different walls and hybrid
applications, using[27,28] withdispositions
specific aim of constituting optimal
and specificities.
passiveimproving
walls
Many [24,25],
studies the
the energy active
are carried walls
and thermal
out, [26]
performance
but andpossible
it is still hybrid to[27,28]
of buildings. These
improve with the aim
performances
the design of theof constituting
depend mainly
envelopes, onoptimal
since
the
visionsthey different
on improving target
are real active applications,
thesolar
energy using
and coupling
systems, specific
thermal the dispositions
performance
techniques of and specificities.
of solar
buildings.
captureThese performances
to latent heat storage. depend
mainlyHowever,Many studies
on the different
despite the are carried
target out, but
applications,
multitude it is still possible
usingit specific
of these studies, to improve the
dispositions
is still possible design
to improve and of the envelopes,
the specificities.
design of envelopes,since
they they
since are real active
are are
real solarsolar
active systems, coupling thethetechniques of of
solar capture towith
latent heat storage.
Many studies carried out,systems,
but it is coupling
still possible techniques
to improve solar
the capture
design of the
thelatent heat
envelopes, since
storage.
they are real active solar systems, coupling the techniques of solar capture to latent heat storage.
However, the envelope insulation is not an exclusive way to improve energy efficiency. The
However, despite the multitude of these studies, it is still possible to improve the design of envelopes,
optimization of energy system performance, the improvement of heating, domestic hot water (DSC),
since they are reallighting
ventilation, active solar systems,systems
and auxiliary coupling the techniques
(items considered by of solar capture with
the maximum the latent heat
conventional
storage.consumption of primary energy: CepMax in RT2012) represent a strong lever in the reduction of
simultaneously with the development of the building envelope inertia to extend the performance of
set-up equipment and energy systems [30–33].
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 5 of 17
3. Contribution of PCM to Energy Storage in Buildings
In order to provide
However, despite thea knowledge base
multitude of these and illustrate
studies, the design
it is still possible and
to improve theperformance
design of envelopes,factors, a full
review of available technologies in the latent heat storage of building elements has become necessary.
since they are real active solar systems, coupling the techniques of solar capture with the latent
heat storage.
Thus, a wide variety of relevant literature published on this subject has been critically examined and
However, the envelope insulation is not an exclusive way to improve energy efficiency.
an information extraction
The optimization of approach
energy system hasperformance,
been carried the out to adjust,
improvement of analyze and realize
heating, domestic a method for
hot water
the optimal design
(DSC), of PCM
ventilation, parameters,
lighting and auxiliaryand to estimate
systems the other
(items considered by theparameters’ potential such as
maximum conventional
boundary conditions, geometric forms and input parameters.
consumption of primary energy: CepMax in RT2012) represent a strong lever in the reduction of
Generally, a description of the works achieved on modeling of three heat transfer modes
energy consumption and CO2 emissions [29]. In this context, a number of solutions are designed
simultaneously with the development of the building envelope inertia to extend the performance of
modeling,set-up
management
equipment of andboundary conditions
energy systems [30–33]. and transitional thermal analysis, gives a clear vision
on the thermal domain. The results confirm that the temperature peaks in a local equipped with PCM
insulation3.could be reduced up to 5 °C (various studies achieved proclaim temperature reductions
Contribution of PCM to Energy Storage in Buildings

between 3 and 5 °C),toand

In order the electricity
provide a knowledgeconsumption
base and illustrate linked to air-cooling
the design system
and performance could
factors, decrease by
a full
review of available technologies in the latent heat storage of building elements has become necessary.
30% [34]. The possibility of storing energy also avoids using heavy materials, such as concrete and
Thus, a wide variety of relevant literature published on this subject has been critically examined and
creates a high inertia, extraction
an information which can lead to
approach hasoverheating
been carried out during weighty
to adjust, internal
analyze and realize aloads
method[35].
for the
In this research, three main axes are explored (as represented in Figure 4):
optimal design of PCM parameters, and to estimate the other parameters’ potential such as boundary
conditions, geometric forms and input parameters.
• Materials Studies:
Generally, Features and
a description reactions:
of the works achieved on modeling of three heat transfer modes modeling,
management of boundary conditions and transitional thermal analysis, gives a clear vision on the
 Thermal transfer optimization by development of new PCMs,
thermal domain. The results confirm that the temperature peaks in a local equipped with PCM
Studies of
 insulation thermal
could transfer
be reduced up tomechanisms withinachieved
5 ◦ C (various studies composite materials
proclaim (construction
temperature reductions materials
and PCM),
between ◦
3 and 5 C), and the electricity consumption linked to air-cooling system could decrease by
 AnalysisThe
30% [34]. of possibility
the properties andenergy
of storing the state of PCM
also avoids (the
using number
heavy of melting/solidification
materials, such as concrete and cycles
creates a high inertia, which can lead to overheating during weighty internal loads [35].
that they can undergo without degrading, a good definition of fusion/liquefaction range,
In this research, three main axes are explored (as represented in Figure 4):
potential harmfulness, etc.),
• Materials Studies: Features and reactions:
• Transfer systems studies: Design, dimensioning, optimization, etc.,
Study:Thermal
• Buildings 3 transfer optimization by development of new PCMs,
Consumption, comfort, simulation,
Studies of thermal transfer mechanisms within composite materials (construction materials
3
The use of solar
andradiation
PCM), is an alternative; one can characterize several ways of exploiting it:
3 Analysis of the properties and the state of PCM (the number of melting/solidification
• For the production ofthat
cycles heat,
theyfrom raw radiation
can undergo (principle
without degrading, of the
a good Trombe
definition wall or the solar thermal
of fusion/liquefaction
panel) or concentrated (concentrated
range, potential solar
harmfulness, etc.),power plants),
• For direct
• production
Transfer systemsof electricity
studies: Design, from radiation
dimensioning, (photovoltaic
optimization, etc., solar panel) or concentrated
photovoltaic
• (CPVStudy:
Buildings system).
Consumption, comfort, simulation,

Figure 4. Research axes in the energy storage area of buildings.

Figure 4. Research axes in the energy storage area of buildings.

4. Statistical Analysis
In an increasingly constrained energy context, the building sector is required to play a
considerable role in limiting energy consumption. For this vision, the latent heat energy storage has
 Buildings 2018, 8, 63 6 of 17

The use of solar radiation is an alternative; one can characterize several ways of exploiting it:

• For the production of heat, from raw radiation (principle of the Trombe wall or the solar thermal
panel) or concentrated (concentrated solar power plants),
• For direct production of electricity from radiation (photovoltaic solar panel) or concentrated
photovoltaic (CPV system).
Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 16
4. Statistical Analysis
Generally,In an analytical
increasinglyand numerical
constrained solutions
energy context, are realized
the building from to
sector is required theoretical models and
play a considerable
compared role
with experimental
in limiting measurements,
energy consumption. invision,
For this orderthe to latent
extractheatuseful
energyparameters
storage has been forwidely
operation of
the study model.
studied in Several methods
the literature have been
by different developed
methods: for anumerical
Experimental, long time andfor modeling
theoretical, andand treating the
between
problem ofthese
heataspects:
transfer hybrid modeling
through the(or gray model).
walls.
Generally, analytical and numerical solutions are realized from theoretical models and compared
Engaging in the quantitative analysis of textual documents is a relevant choice if there is a
with experimental measurements, in order to extract useful parameters for operation of the study
guarantee model.
of obtaining results have
Several methods evenbeenif they are not
developed forexhaustive
a long time for and definitive.
modeling The method
and treating the problemused here
is based onofaheat
statistical study of
transfer through theawalls.
stack of 100 papers produced during the period 2006–2016.
Engaging in the
Among the resolution methods of heatquantitative analysis of textual
transfer documents
problem, the is a relevant
enthalpy choice ifranks
method there is a while
first,
the secondguarantee
order isofoccupied
obtaining results even if they are not exhaustive and definitive. The method used here is
by the apparent heat capacity method [36]. For Numerical approaches,
based on a statistical study of a stack of 100 papers produced during the period 2006–2016.
the finite elements method is considered as the first tool used in research [37] followed by the
Among the resolution methods of heat transfer problem, the enthalpy method ranks first, while
differencesthe
finite
second method
order is(see Section
occupied by the6).apparent heat capacity method [36]. For Numerical approaches,
Concerning
the finitematerials
elements methodused isinconsidered
researchasstudies, they
the first tool usedare
in given
researchgenerally
[37] followedbybyuse
thepriority:
differencesParaffin
finite method
family organic Compounds, (see Section 6).
hydrates and eutectic components [38]. Each of these MCPs has its own
Concerning materials used in research studies, they are given generally by use priority: Paraffin
properties, which can be improved by different configurations by adding onto these characteristics
family organic Compounds, hydrates and eutectic components [38]. Each of these MCPs has its own
such integration
properties,ofwhich
metalcanstrands to increase
be improved itsconfigurations
by different thermal conductivity;
by adding ontothe theseaddition of asuch
characteristics nucleating
agent can integration
eliminateof the metalsuper-cooling
strands to increase and the use
its thermal of a suitable
conductivity; PCMofthickness
the addition a nucleatingcanagentprevent
can the
incongruouseliminate
fusion. the Figure
super-cooling and the
5 shows a use of a suitable PCM
classification thickness
of these can prevent
materials. Thethe distribution
incongruous fusion.
of material
Figure 5 shows a classification of these materials. The distribution
families, inventoried through their usage in the literature, is presented in Figure 6. of material families, inventoried
through their usage in the literature, is presented in Figure 6.

Figure 5. Diagram of PCM classification [17].

Figure 5. Diagram of PCM classification [17].
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 7 of 17
Figure 5. Diagram of PCM classification [17].

FigureFigure 6. Distribution
6. Distribution of familiesof
of families ofmaterials
materials inventoried
inventoriedin the
in studied literature
the studied throughthrough
literature their usage.
their usage.

4.1. Researches by Subjects Dealing with PCM in the Building Sector

4.1. Researches by Subjects Dealing with PCM in the Building Sector
The majority of energy consumption in the construction field is used as a resource of active
systems
The for theof
majority cooling andconsumption
energy heating of indoorinspaces. The research themes
the construction field existing
is usedinas
literature cover of active
a resource
Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 16
systems for the cooling and heating of indoor spaces. The research themes existing in literature cover
all phase-change thermal application parts, therefore, it is not easy to have a clear picture of the
all phase-change thermal application parts, therefore, it is not easy to have a clear picture of the
information
information updated,
updated,because somesome
because new outcomes
new outcomesmay gainsay
may the ancient
gainsay theresults [39].results
ancient Nevertheless,
[39].
we Nevertheless,
can present an overall view on the subjects dealing with PCM in the building
we can present an overall view on the subjects dealing with PCM in the building sector in the table
sector
below (Table 1) and in the graphic (see Figure 7)
in the table below (Table 1) and in the graphic (see Figure 7)

Table
Table1.1.Subjects
Subjectsdealing
dealingwith
withPCM
PCM in
in the building sector.
the building sector.

Group Percentage
Group Percentage Subject
Subject
A A 17% 17% Development of new
Development PCMs
of new PCMs
Treatment of existing PCMs
Treatment of existing PCMs bybystudying
studyingtheir thermophysical
their thermophysical andand
B B 21% 21%
structural properties
structural andand
properties their temperature
their temperature range
range ofofphase
phase transition
transition
C C 13% 13% Processing of specific
Processing applications
of specific applicationsand
andpotential technologies
potential technologies using
using PCMs PCMs
Measurement techniques
Measurement Study
techniques Studyininorder
order to definethethe
to define thermal
thermal properties
properties of
D D 35% 35%
of Existing PCM
Existing PCM
E E 14% 14% Incorporation of phase
Incorporation change
of phase materials
change materialsinto
into building elements
building elements

Figure7.7.Topics
Figure Topicsdealing
dealingwith
with PCM
PCM use
use in
in buildings.
buildings.

4.2.4.2. Methods
Methods of Solving
of Solving ThermalDifferential
Thermal DifferentialEquations
Equations
Mathematical language is necessary to describe physics laws. These lows are, generally,
Mathematical language is necessary to describe physics laws. These lows are, generally, translated
translated by Partial Differential Equations, which are usually time and space dependent on
by Partial Differential Equations, which are usually time and space dependent on independent variables
independent variables x, y, z and t. These methods can be classified into four main groups:
x, y, z and t. These methods can be classified into four main groups:
• Analytical methods,
• • Analytical methods,
Semi-analytical methods,
Numerical Methods,
• • Semi-analytical methods,
Hybrid methods
• • Numerical Methods,(Analytical/Numerical).
• Hybrid methods
In general, (Analytical/Numerical).
the Fields studied with these equations are:
• Temperature variation as a function of time,
• Temperature variation as a function of thickness,
• Evolution of the solidification process,
• Evolution of enthalpies.
 Buildings 2018, 8, 63 8 of 17

In general, the Fields studied with these equations are:

• Temperature variation as a function of time,

• Temperature variation as a function of thickness,
• Evolution of the solidification process,
• Evolution of enthalpies.

In the thermal domain, we can find several techniques of treatment, measurement and
determination of phase change problems solutions, among them numerical, experimental, analytical
and hybrid methods. In this sample, it is noted that the first and the second are the main methods used
in 2018,
Buildings the papers
Buildings 2018, 8, xexamined
8, x FOR PEER (see Figure 8) [40].
REVIEW
FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 16
8 of 16

Figure 8. Types
Figure
Figure of study
8.8.Types
Types methods
ofofstudy
study usedused
methods
methods in theinin
used sample.
the
thesample.
sample.

5. Experimental Study
5.5.Experimental
ExperimentalStudy
Study
The The
experimental
Theexperimental studies
experimental of storage
studies
studies of of and and
storage
storageretrieval dynamics,
retrieval
and which
dynamics,
retrieval dynamics, have
which been
have
which conducted,
been
have conducted,
been are are
conducted,
intended to permit
intended
are intended thepermit
to permit
to observation
the observationof thermal and
of thermal
the observation mechanical
and
of thermal and behavior
mechanical of materials
behavior
mechanical inoftheir
of materials
behavior different
in their
materials different
in their
states and
states the
and incorporation
the incorporation effect of these
effect of materials
these on
materials improving
on the
improving energy
the efficiency
energy of
efficiency
different states and the incorporation effect of these materials on improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
of buildings.
The The
research hasThe
research
buildings. been carried
hasresearch
been outbeen
carried
has in two
out in structures:
two
carried out inconventional
structures:
twoconventionalstructures
structures: and and
structures
conventional improved
improved
structures structures
andstructures
improved
[41].[41].
structures [41].
In experimental
InInexperimental
experimentalstudies, we generally
studies,
studies, we
wegenerallyworkwork
generally withwith
work thermal
with measurement
thermal
thermal measurement
measurementmethods
methods which
methods are are
which
which are
schematically
schematicallyrepresented
schematicallyrepresented in Figure
representedininFigure 9, such as
Figure9,9,such Differential Scanning
suchasasDifferential Calorimetry
DifferentialScanning
ScanningCalorimetry (DSC),
Calorimetry(DSC), Hot plate
(DSC),HotHotplate
plate
method, Graph
method,
method, Graphmethod,
Graph Hot Hot
method,
method, wire method,
Hotwire
wiremethod,Thermocouple
method, Thermocouple
Thermocouplemethod, FlashFlash
method,
method, Method,
Flash T-history
Method,
Method, method,
T-history
T-history method,
method,
and and
Method of variation of thermal sensitivity of luminescent substances (Thureau
and Method of variation of thermal sensitivity of luminescent substances (Thureau Method)[42].
Method of variation of thermal sensitivity of luminescent substances Method)
(Thureau Method)[42]. [42].

Figure 9. Different
Figure
Figure techniques
Different
9.9.Different of treatment,
techniques
techniques measurement
ofoftreatment,
treatment, and calculation
measurement
measurement in the
andcalculation
and calculation thermal
inin domain.
thethermal
the thermal domain.
domain.
Adapted fromfrom
Adapted
Adapted [43].
from[43].
[43].

It is found that that

It is found the Differential Scanning
the Differential Calorimetry
Scanning (DSC)
Calorimetry method
(DSC) methodappears to betothe
appears beprevailing
the prevailing
method
methodin usein by
useresearchers. About
by researchers. a third
About of researchers
a third use use
of researchers it, thanks to itstoversatility
it, thanks and and
its versatility its its
instructive
instructive power;
power;it isit used in several
is used in severaldomains, fromfrom
domains, pharmaceuticals
pharmaceuticals and andpolymers to to
polymers
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials and and
foodfood
products [44].[44].
products
Moreover, there is group of methods that measure the evolution depending on temperature,
 Buildings 2018, 8, 63 9 of 17

It is found that the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) method appears to be the prevailing
method in use by researchers. About a third of researchers use it, thanks to its versatility and its
instructive power; it is used in several domains, from pharmaceuticals and polymers to Nanomaterials
and food products [44].
Moreover, there is group of methods that measure the evolution depending on temperature,
time and physical atmosphere or chemical material properties, when the material is subjected to
continuous temperature programming (TGA: Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis, DTA: Differential Thermal
Analysis, TMA: Thermo-Mechanical Analysis, EGA: Evolved Gas Analysis, DSC: Differential Scanning
Calorimetry).
Buildings This
2018, 8, x FOR series
PEER of thermal measurement methods is presented in Figures 10 and 11.9 of 16
REVIEW
Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 16

Figure 10. Experimental measurement methods (thermal analysis).

Figure10.10.Experimental
Figure Experimentalmeasurement
measurementmethods
methods (thermal
(thermal analysis).
analysis).

Figure 11. Distribution of Experimental treatment through Type used in examined literature papers.
Figure11.
Figure 11.Distribution
DistributionofofExperimental
Experimentaltreatment
treatmentthrough
throughType
Type used
used inin examined
examined literature
literature papers.
papers.

6. Analytical andandNumerical Approaches

6.6.Analytical
Analytical Numerical
and Numerical Approaches
Approaches
The The
analytical approach
analytical approach is done by solving mathematical formulations, reduced by valid
The analytical approach isisdone
done bybysolving
solving mathematical
mathematical formulations,
formulations, reduced
reduced bybyvalid
valid
assumptions,
assumptions, for very
for simple
very case
simple of
case 1Dof geometries,
1D geometries,whose
whoseboundary
boundary conditions are
conditions very
are special,
very special,
assumptions, for very simple case of 1D geometries, whose boundary conditions are very special,
without being
without generalized
being to cover
generalized the actual
to cover treatment. It is Itachieved by reducing the difficulty of
without being generalized to cover thethe actual
actual treatment.
treatment. is achieved
It is achieved by reducing
by reducing the difficulty
the difficulty of theof
the the
problem
problem by abysimple description
a description
simple descriptionof the system,
of the which
system, whichenables faster
enables processing
faster processing speed. Its Its
speed.
problem by a simple of the system, which enables faster processing speed. Its importance
importance
importance appears in the phase change resolution for the one-dimensional problem and simple
appears in theappears in the phase
phase change change
resolution forresolution for the one-dimensional
the one-dimensional problem and problem and simple
simple geometries
geometries (cylindrical,
geometriesspherical spherical
(cylindrical, sphericalor plane), which
or plane), requires
which powerful
requires numerical
powerful techniques
numerical to study.
(cylindrical, or plane), which requires powerful numerical techniques to techniques
study. to study.
Models are a powerful tool to predict the behavior of thermal
Models are a powerful tool to predict the behavior of thermal systems from a detailed systems from a detailed
description and and
description to optimize
to optimizetheirtheir
design by solving
design the mathematical
by solving the mathematical formulations thatthat
formulations describe the the
describe
phenomenon
phenomenon to betomodeled.
be modeled. Its advantage
Its advantage is the
is possibility of applying
the possibility all the
of applying all possible
the possibleconditions
conditions
on aonvirtual system in order to analyze the behaviors, which will allow
a virtual system in order to analyze the behaviors, which will allow designing the designing the necessary
necessary
changes to optimize the final product.
changes to optimize the final product.
All numerical methods are based on the techniques of discretization of mathematical equations
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 10 of 17

Models are a powerful tool to predict the behavior of thermal systems from a detailed description
and to optimize their design by solving the mathematical formulations that describe the phenomenon
to be modeled. Its advantage is the possibility of applying all the possible conditions on a virtual
system in order to analyze the behaviors, which will allow designing the necessary changes to optimize
the final product.
All numerical methods are based on the techniques of discretization of mathematical equations
dominating the physical phenomenon. Three main methods are identified in this area; statistical study
has raised
Buildings 2018,their percentages
8, x FOR of use in research, as represented in Figure 12 below.
PEER REVIEW 10 of 16

Figure
Figure12.
12.Different
Differentnumerical
numericalmethods
methodsin
inthe
thethermal
thermaldomain.
domain.

Another classification of the phase change resolution strategies is based on other treatment
Another classification of the phase change resolution strategies is based on other treatment
techniques, such as apparent thermal capacity, enthalpy method, discontinuous integration method
techniques, such as apparent thermal capacity, enthalpy method, discontinuous integration method
and method of change of the independent variable. For this distribution, the frequently used process
and method of change of the independent variable. For this distribution, the frequently used process
is the enthalpy method based on the following implicit equations:
is the enthalpy method based on the following implicit equations:
∂H ∂H
ρ · ∂H ∂H= ∇[λ(∇ T)] + S (1)
ρ·∆t ∆t = ∇[λ(∇T)] + Ssens (1)
∆t ∆t
where H is the enthalpy, is density and Ssens notes sensible heat.
where H is the(1)
Equation enthalpy, ρ is densityinand
can be formulated theSfollowing
sens notes sensible
form: heat.
Equation (1) can be formulated in the following form:
∂T λ ∂f
C + C ∇T = ∇  (∇T) − L  + ∇ + S (2)
∆t λ
+ Cp ∇T = ∇ ρ (∇T) − L ∂t + ∇ f + Ssens
∂T ∂f
Cp (2)
∆t ρ ∂t
where
where 1 T
 <T
1 T < Ts
T − T 
= f = T
T−Ts
Ts < T < Tl < T < T (3)(3)
T − T 
Tl −Ts
0 T > Tl
0 T >T
whereH
where Hisisthe enthalpy, ∇
theenthalpy, isisthe
thethermal
thermalconductivity,
conductivity,TsTsisisthe
thesolid
solidand
andTTl lthe
theliquid
liquidtemperature.
temperature.
Although the
Although the solution
solutionofof
this equation
this equationrequires a convergence
requires criterion
a convergence of the scheme
criterion of theand a knowledge
scheme and a
knowledge of the enthalpy temperature functional dependency, the enthalpy method isthan
of the enthalpy temperature functional dependency, the enthalpy method is more suitable the
more
apparent thermal capacity method (Figure 13), since the modeling of the latter, in a temperature
suitable than the apparent thermal capacity method (Figure 13), since the modeling of the latter, in a range
containing that
temperature of the
range phase change,
containing that of is
thevery delicate.
phase change, is very delicate.
For analysis of randomly PCM systems the differential energy equation in rectangular
coordinates (x, y and z) is represented as:
For analysis of randomly PCM systems the differential energy equation in rectangular
coordinates (x, y and z) is represented as:
∂ ∂T ∂ ∂T ∂ ∂T ∂h ∂
λ· + λ· + λ· =ρ = ρ C dT (4)
∂x ∂x ∂y ∂y ∂z ∂z ∂t ∂t
And the boundaries conditions are given by:
 With: b is the subscript relating to the concrete, ΓPCM the side of the studied system containing
PCM, Γb the side of the studied system containing the concrete, ϕ is the temperature flux and h1
and h2 are respectively convection coefficients of two sides. Indeed, the value of the thermal capacity
hasBuildings
a divergence
2018, 8, 63
aptitude in the phase transition zone, when the latent heat is high and 11 the
of 17
temperature interval [Ts, Tl] is narrow [42].

Figure 13.13.
Figure Different methods
Different used
methods in the
used thermal
in the domain.
thermal domain.

Furthermore, this kind of study can be broadly categorized [44] as follows:

For analysis of randomly PCM systems the differential energy equation in rectangular coordinates
• Unidirectional
(x, heat equation
y and z) is represented as: in a single wall,
• Two dimensional heatequation  in asinglewall,   Z
• Unidirectional heat∂equation
λ·
∂T in the
+
∂ wall,∂Tenergy∂balance
λ· + λ·
∂T in a room,
=ρ
∂h
=ρ
∂
Cp dT (4)
• Two or three dimensional
∂x ∂xheat equation
∂y ∂yin the ∂z
wall, energy
∂z balance
∂t in∂t
a room.
And the boundaries conditions are given by:
7. Simulation Tools for Integration of PCMs in Buildings

∂ TPCM (x,y,z,t))
This section
 (∀presents
y ∈ ΓPCMa);global
φ(0, y,review
z, t) = of · ( literature
−λthe ∂t on
|x=available
0
= h 1 ·(Tcommercial
(0, y, z0t) − tools
Tout (tthat
)) can be
(5)
used to simulate  the behavior of integrated
(∀y ∈ Γb ); φ(0, y, z, t) = −λ· PCMs∂(Tb (in concrete,
x,y,z,t ))
= h2 ·(T(L, y, z, t) − Tint (t)) alveolar
in conventional bricks and in
|x=L
bricks form building envelopes, in order to determine their pros and cons.
∂t

It is impossible
With: b is theto use prototypes
subscript relatingin tothe
thethermal
concrete,ofΓbuildings to test new results. Each building
PCM the side of the studied system containing
is specific in its design, construction and equipment.
PCM, Γb the side of the studied system containing the concrete, φ is the In this context, the temperature
simulation has fluxbecome a
and h1 and
quite unavoidable
h2 are respectively decision
convection support tool inofthe
coefficients twoconstruction
sides. Indeed, sector, sinceofitthe
the value is thermal
used to capacity
model thehas a
buildings energy performance, improve the thermal comfort of residents,
divergence aptitude in the phase transition zone, when the latent heat is high and the temperature reliably estimate the
forecast
intervalconsumption of the[42].
[Ts , Tl ] is narrow building in operation over its full life cycle and optimize construction
and operation charges.
Furthermore, this kind of study can be broadly categorized [44] as follows:
The majority of these tools was developed initially to estimate the heating and cooling
•
requirements of a building,
Unidirectional based oninthe
heat equation characteristics
a single wall, of its envelope. For this purpose, they assess
the energy requirements and the level of buildings
• Two dimensional heat equation in a single wall, thermal comfort more precisely than the
simplified
• methods based
Unidirectional heaton monthly
equation in or
theyearly balances.
wall, energy balance in a room,
• Examples
Two or three of such softwaresheat
dimensional proposed
equation to inthethebuilding
wall, energyactors, DOE in
balance 2 (2.3,
a room.James J Hirsch &
Associates, Santa Rosa Valley, CA, USA), ENERGY PLUS (8.8.0, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL,
USA), ESP-r (University
7. Simulation Tools for of Integration
Strathclyde,of Glasgow,
PCMs in Scotland,
Buildings UK), SIMBAD ( 1, CSTB, Marne-la-Vallée,
FRANCE), ThisTRNSYS (18, Solar
section presents energyreview
a global laboratory
of the(SEL),
literature Madison University,
on available Madison,
commercial toolsWI, USA),
that can be
PLAIED-COMFIE
used to simulate the behavior of integrated PCMs in concrete, in conventional bricks and in Lyon,
(4, IZUBA ÉNERGIES, Fabrègues, France) and CoDyBa (KoZiBu, JNLOG, alveolar
France)
bricks[45,46].
form building envelopes, in order to determine their pros and cons.
ToItmeet the requirements
is impossible of the use of
to use prototypes in the
theexisting
thermaltools in the research
of buildings area and
to test new the commercial
results. Each building
domain, and to study the performance and precision of the proposed
is specific in its design, construction and equipment. In this context, the simulation tools, numerous studies have
has become
been carried
a quite out on thedecision
unavoidable analysissupport
of the toolsensitivity of these toolssector,
in the construction by varying
since itseveral
is usedparameters.
to model the
However, it would be interesting to compare different software
buildings energy performance, improve the thermal comfort of residents, reliably estimate on the same building with the
the same
forecast
conditions [47].
consumption of the building in operation over its full life cycle and optimize construction and
The purpose
operation charges. of thermal simulation software is to reduce the number of prototypes and
experiments that
The majority ofmust be these
performed
tools when
was designing
developedand optimizing
initially the thermal
to estimate process. Therefore,
the heating and cooling
requirements of a building, based on the characteristics of its envelope. For this purpose, they
assess the energy requirements and the level of buildings thermal comfort more precisely than the
simplified methods based on monthly or yearly balances.
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 12 of 17

Examples of such softwares proposed to the building actors, DOE 2 (2.3, James J Hirsch &
Associates, Santa Rosa Valley, CA, USA), ENERGY PLUS (8.8.0, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL,
USA), ESP-r (University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK), SIMBAD ( 1, CSTB, Marne-la-Vallée,
FRANCE), TRNSYS (18, Solar energy laboratory (SEL), Madison University, Madison, WI, USA),
PLAIED-COMFIE (4, IZUBA ÉNERGIES, Fabrègues, France) and CoDyBa (KoZiBu, JNLOG, Lyon,
France) [45,46].
To meet the requirements of the use of the existing tools in the research area and the commercial
domain, and to study the performance and precision of the proposed tools, numerous studies have been
carried out on the analysis of the sensitivity of these tools by varying several parameters. However, it
would be interesting to compare different software on the same building with the same conditions [47].
The purpose of thermal simulation software is to reduce the number of prototypes and
experiments that must be performed when designing and optimizing the thermal process. Therefore,
these tools contribute to a fast understanding of the phenomena involved, which motivated the new
conceptions [48]. Most of these software packages consist of a processing and calculation engine,
which allows detailed thermal simulations based on input and output files established by simple texts.
These engines contain mathematical algorithms that are used to determine the energy performance
according to the motor model [49].
The reading of the existing bibliography on simulation tools shows that there is a wide range
of tools for simulation and modeling phenomena of the energy storage in buildings’ components.
The continuous evolution of these tools, over time; has allowed them to enrich themselves, to the
detriment of a complexity for apprehending the physical reality: from 1D to 3D, larger and larger
systems, laws of increasingly complex behavior, from the linear to the non-linear, and so on. However,
through this study, it was found that the simulation results depend upon a very large number of
own modeling sensitive parameters to the given values that are often specified by default and may
be inappropriate.
Even experts do not have a good understanding of the relevant values of these parameters, their
impact on the modeling of the thermal phenomenon or access to adjust their values according to
the cases studied. These tools can be categorized, in terms of access and exploitation, in commercial
software and free software [50].
Concerning commercial software such as TRNSYS and COMSOL Multiphysics, they are very
popular in the heat transfer applications. They can solve problems by coupling them with other
solvers or numerical simulation software such as ANSYS FLUENT™ (14, ANSYS, Canonsburg, PA,
USA), which is considered a platform for the study of fluids, fusion, combustion, multiphase and
convection. These tools are also restricted by universities authorizations or industrial purchases and
by the complexity of their implementation. Moreover, they do not treat the effect of PCM integration
in buildings. These limitations apply to almost every available tool of this kind today. As for free
software, it is used in consulting, research and teaching contexts. EnergyPlus and ESP-r are references
in the domain [51].
Software such as Softwares PLEIADES+COMFIE (4, IZUBA ÉNERGIES, Fabrègues, France),
Simulink (9.1, The MathWorks, Natick, MA, USA), DYMOLA (2018 FD01, Terasoft, CA, USA),
SPARK (2.01, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, California, USA) and DesignBuilder (5.0.1.024,
DesignBuilder, Vincennes, Ile de France, France) come in the second place. These types of tools are
considered to be building modelers with powerful functions for estimating construction, energy, and
life cycle costs. These tools include optimization modules that determine building parameters to make
a compromise among cost, comfort, GES [52,53]. The distribution of the simulation tools by their usage
is presented in Figure 14.
SPARK (2.01, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, California, USA) and DesignBuilder
(5.0.1.024, DesignBuilder, Vincennes, Ile de France, France) come in the second place. These types of
tools are considered to be building modelers with powerful functions for estimating construction,
energy, and life cycle costs. These tools include optimization modules that determine building
parameters to8,make
Buildings 2018, 63 a compromise among cost, comfort, GES [52,53]. The distribution of 13 the
of 17
simulation tools by their usage is presented in Figure 14.

Figure 14.14.
Figure Analysis andand
Analysis simulation tools
simulation perper
tools their usage
their in the
usage analyzed
in the research
analyzed papers.
research papers.

The manner of simulating each type of system and parameterizing is very different from one
The manner of simulating each type of system and parameterizing is very different from one
software to another. However, the standard parameters that are used in comparison of these different
software to another. However, the standard parameters that are used in comparison of these different
types of software can be summarized as below (see Table 2).
types of software can be summarized as below (see Table 2).

Table 2. Comparison parameters of simulation tools.

Parameter Description
User interface; conducting parametric studies; time for learning and training;
Usability simulation run time, help for input (graphical, intuitive, import from a file, . . . ) ability
to cut into uniform thermal zones and duplicate data entry
Prevalence Availability and Accessibility of documentation, user support, pricing and licensing
Functionality Geometric detail of comprehensiveness, Details of system modeling
Reliability Stability and accuracy of results
Influence of parameters over their uncertainty range and effect of each parameter on
Sensitivity the model output data, sensitivity analysis of the predefined parameters characteristic
of the design, opportunity to examine the sensitivity of simulation results
Capability in
handling material Phase change, variable thermal conductivity, Specific capacity . . .
property
Standard, Full Material Library, possibility of importing, dynamic (definition of walls
Libraries built into
from library materials, option of creating materials if needed, . . . ), Innovative
the software
Products (PCM), Predefined Device Libraries . . .

8. Prospective Vision
Solar thermal energy is renewable, clean and free; it can contribute to electricity generation, hot
water, air-conditioning of dwellings and lighting for buildings. One of the prospective approaches
for storing this energy is the application of PCM [52]. However, before practicing this technology
on a large scale, it is necessary to solve several problems in the research, design and development
stages. These include the integration of renewable energy systems into existing structures. In addition,
priority must be attached to the evolution of regulatory frameworks to master the features and benefits
of energy storage systems globally.
Although several studies have been carried out on integration processes, much remains to be
completed for advanced PCM integration techniques in real buildings. Especially in the form of
building blocks, which can be used in the construction by creating a structure with high thermal inertia
deprived of a large mass.
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 14 of 17

Today, there is a rising emphasis on the environment and mainly on energy consumption. Thermal
storage systems reach an industrial stage compatible with system applications. They are active for
several applications (buildings, industrial processes, heat grids): case for applications coupled with
smart grids. The evaluation of this evolution allows reaching alternative visions of research in the
domain of long-term storage systems. In the near future and in several countries, direct solar radiation
is and will be considered one of the prospective energy sources.
In the future, the PCM will be increasingly adopted as global solutions for energy management
due to the advancement of innovative technologies which lessen environmental impact. To achieve
this, we must promote synergistic solutions in the solar energy sector.
After reading the literature, the following findings are raised:

• The technologies and the applications corresponding to specific climates and buildings’ typologies
are not reachable solely by the information published,
• Heat and mass transfer phenomena occur in the building: between the building and the
environment, in each building element, between the inhabitants and the building, between
air and envelopes and between air of various areas,
• Due to internal and external loads and the complexity of the building as a thermodynamic system,
designing buildings with positive energy is very difficult,
• Most PCM studies are geared towards their use, when they are integrated into the building
envelope for heating applications and their integration into the envelope of buildings with low
thermal inertia for the purpose of improving summer comfort, on the other hand,
• Several results of PCM studies have been tested at the laboratory scale. However, with
technological development, computer simulations are performed to study the effect of PCM
in real buildings,
• Many materials have been the subject of advanced studies to be used as phase change materials;
nevertheless, few are available and marketed today,
• All models in the considered studies are adjusted to a number of constraints, geometry,
boundary conditions, initial conditions, working hypotheses and thermal regimes (stationary,
quasi-established, variable),
• At present, there are no large capacity latent heat storage facilities. However, many projects are
underway, notably in the United States: The Metallic Composites Phase-Change Materials for
High-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage project, led by MIT, on molten nanomaterial.

9. Conclusions
This work includes a descriptive study on the different technical solutions applied in the modeling
of PCM integration systems in building envelopes and on the simulation tools used in this technology.
We followed the technological approaches used in system modeling of solar energy storage.
The literature devoted to the manipulation of these techniques and approaches in the field of solar
energy management system technologies is constantly increasing and this is due to the potential of
this resource, which has become an issue for the economy. Indeed, the storage of thermal energy using
adequate forms of PCM is an ongoing challenge for building designers and can play a prominent role
in the energy system of the future.
In addition, the future of these smart materials lies in the innovation of the development of
computer and electronic components. Similarly, in light of the above remarks, it is concluded that
while the development of thermal simulation tools has facilitated the use of results and helped to make
decisions, the exploitation of these tools is not an easy task to perform. This is because it requires a
precise knowledge of the processes in the building.
Despite extensive research in this area, as with other technologies, TESS-PCM has some obstacles
that prevent it from taking a place on the market. In fact, a more judicious evaluation of the different
PCM integration systems in the building structure is essential, especially in practical use conditions.
Buildings 2018, 8, 63 15 of 17

In the case of numerical studies, particular consideration should be given to the modeling hypotheses
and the personalized parameterization of the simulation tools: convective heat transfer coefficient, use
of the phase diagram, the choice of time and space steps.

Author Contributions: Writing, outline and investigation of the paper were contributed by all authors.
Acknowledgments: Authors would like to thank reviewers for providing helpful comments. In addition, thanks
are due to the Buildings Journal’s staff and editor for treatment of this article.
Conflicts of Interest: We confirm that there are no known conflicts of interest associated with this publication and
there has been no financial support for this work that could have influenced its outcome.

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