Numerical Heat Transfer Analysis of a Phase Change Material (PCM) - Enhanced Plaster

A. Kylili [1], M. Theodoridou [2], I. Ioannou [2], P. A. Fokaides [1],
[1] Frederick Research Center, Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
[2] University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
Published in 2016

A time-dependent study was conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics® (Conjugate Heat Transfer interface and Heat Transfer with Phase Change feature) for the numerical investigation of the thermal performance of novel Phase Change Material (PCM)-enhanced plasters for their incorporation in buildings located in summer-dominant environments. Four 3-dimensional (3D) model designs of building elements are investigated; a reference case incorporating conventional lime plaster; and three building elements incorporating lime plaster, enhanced by the addition of 5%, 10%, and 20% by weight PCM. Numerical simulation models are validated by data acquired from experimental work.