Assessment of PCM/SiC-based composite aggregate in concrete: Energy storage performance

Abstract

This work investigates the thermal energy storage performance of concrete using a phase change material (PCM)/SiC-based composite aggregate made with paraffin wax, silicon carbide, and slag aggregate. The thermal energy storage properties were evaluated using a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) curve, thermal conductivity, hydration heat development, and internal temperature measurements. In addition, a mock-up concrete structure was constructed to evaluate thermal energy storage under natural conditions. The DSC curve showed that the PCM/SiC-based composite aggregate changed its phase and stored thermal energy at 33-34 degrees C. The internal temperature test indicated that the temperature of the sample with PCM/SiC-based composite aggregate was approximately 2-10 degrees C higher because of the thermal heat storage capacity of the PCM/SiC-based composite aggregate. A wall surface temperature of 42 degrees C and 45 degrees C, respectively at the internal and external side of the energy storage structure wall was measured. While an indoor temperature of 35 degrees C was observed for energy storage structure. However, the internal surface temperature of the plain structure wall and the indoor room temperature were 41 degrees C and 38 degrees C, respectively. The concrete structure with PCM/SiC-based composite aggregate decreased the room temperature and stored thermal energy of approximately 3 degrees C.