Impact of Phase Change Materials on the Durability Properties of Cementitious Composites—A Review

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) are the novel thermal storage materials which have an ability to engross and dispel heat during the process of phase transition from solid to liquid and vice versa. Utilization of PCMs in cementitious composites has gained a lot of attention from the research fraternity to minimize the energy loadings used for space conditioning and heating in building. Impact of PCM’s presence in cementitious composites on the durability parameters is the need for its better usage. This paper gives the state of review on the influence of inclusion of phase change materials in the cementitious system on its various durability aspects. Durability properties such as porosity, water absorption, shrinkage, chloride ingression, and chemical attacks are compiled in this article. It is stated that the integration of PCM in cement composites enhances the porosity of cementitious system. Major hindrance described by the researchers is the interruption of hydration activity of cementitious system by the addition of PCM. Literature also signified that the micro/nano encapsulates PCMs and the use of highly reactive Pozzolans such as silica fume or nano-silica in conjunction with PCMs has the ability to lock up the limitations of PCMs. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.