Using PCM in Two Proposed Residential Buildings in Christchurch, New Zealand

Erik Schmerse, Charles A. Ikutegbe, Amar Auckaili and Mohammed M. Farid
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Erik Schmerse: Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Charles A. Ikutegbe: Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Amar Auckaili: Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Mohammed M. Farid: Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Energies, 2020, vol. 13, issue 22, 1-25

Abstract: A characteristic feature of lightweight constructions is their low thermal mass which causes high internal temperature fluctuations that require high heating and cooling demand throughout the year. Phase change materials (PCMs) are effective in providing thermal inertia to low-thermal-mass buildings. This paper aims to analyse the thermal behaviour of two proposed lightweight buildings designed for homeless people and to investigate the potential benefit achievable through the use of different types of PCM in the temperate climatic conditions of Christchurch, New Zealand. For this purpose, over 300 numerical simulations were conducted using DesignBuilder ® simulation software. The bulk of the simulations were carried out under the assumption that the whole opaque building envelope is equipped with PCM. The results showed significant energy saving and comfort enhancement through the application of PCMs. The integration of PCM in single-structure components led to substantial energy savings between 19% and 27% annually. However, occupant behaviour in terms of ventilation habits, occupancy of zones, etc. remains one of the biggest challenges in any simulation work due to insufficient data.

Keywords: structure component; occupant behaviour; energy savings; lightweight building; comfort enhancement (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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