Implementation of microencapsulated PCM as concrete addition in prefabricated radiant-walls solutions. A feasibility study of the combination of Micronal & In-Term Klimavaeg, as an in-space thermal energy storage solution for heating applications

Abstract

Traditional heating and cooling solutions are currently being replaced with new low-temperature technologies, which reduce energy consumptions and reach a more sustainable approach.The current status of the European construction sector and the European energetic plans Europe 2020 and Europe 2050, presenta potentialmarket expansion in the energetic renovation area.

As one of the main emitter technologies, the implementation of radiant heating and cooling in constructive elements such as radian!floors, walls and ceilings has experienced a considerable growth during the last decade in Europe, and is highlighted as one of the most efficient heating and cooling solutions available.

The comparison of the principal radian!wall panel manufacturers in the European market shows a lack of products with high TES capacity, which opens a field for innovative products reaching greater thermal mass values. The implementation of PCM in construction products (laten!heat) allows the improvement of the TES capacity of these materials without increasing the volume of the element or rising the element temperatures.

The present study analyses the feasibility of integrating BASF Micronal (microencapsulated PCM) in the concrete layer of a prefabricated radian!wall element (ln-therrn Klimavceg). This research is focused on the increase of the TES capacity of the element, in order to reduce heating costs by balancing the energy demand on electricity peak hours (Smart Metering).

The results of the present research showed that the addition of Micronal in the concrete layer of ln-therm Klimavceg is technically feasible (mechanically and thermally), doubling the element TES capacity. Despite that the combination with smart metering solutions reaches small costs reductions, the results reached during the present study opens a vast range of applications for the thermalimprovement reached on ln-therm Klimavceg.