Numerical and experimental study on the use of microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) in textile reinforced concrete panels for energy storage

The present work focuses on the development of facade elements for improvement of energy efficiency in buildings. The proposed solution consists of new textile reinforced concrete panels including microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) in a variety of mix designs. A multiscale experimental characterization was performed to evaluate the thermal performance of different configurations. The results showed an increase in heat storage capacity and thermal inertia of the textile reinforced concrete with PCMs. In addition, A numerical model was developed and validated with experimental results.