Enhancing the thermal performance of cementitious composites: A comprehensive review of phase change material integration

Abstract

Changes in climate and extreme weather conditions lead to increased use of energy-intensive devices such as air conditioners in hot weather and heaters in cold weather to maintain indoor comfort. The overall structure of a building plays a crucial role in ensuring its energy efficiency. Researchers estimate energy usage and develop enhanced envelope materials. Notably, incorporating phase change materials into cementitious composites improves their thermal performance, marking a significant advance in energy efficient building technologies. This review describes various types of phase change materials, their compatibility with cementitious composites (focusing on incorporation methods), and their effects on mechanical and thermal properties. It examines integration techniques such as direct incorporation, encapsulation, and admixture, assessing each method's effectiveness in maintaining structural integrity and durability while optimizing thermal storage capabilities. It also evaluates the effects of phase change material integration on cementitious composites’ physical properties, setting time, and mechanical strength. Additionally, the thermal regulation properties of cementitious composites enhanced with a phase change material are discussed in building applications, along with experimental and modeled studies. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd