Effect of Phase-Change Materials on Properties of Concrete

The results of an experimental investigation of using phase-change materials (PCMs) in portland cement concrete are presented in this paper. The objective of this paper is to improve the thermal properties of concrete as a structural material. A compression test, flexural test, drying shrinkage test and thermal conductivity test were conducted. The paper shows how PCMs are used in concrete mixtures as both sand replacement and additives. The results revealed that in the replacement method, the loss of compressive strength due to the addition of PCM is not as high as the additive method. For up to 20% sand replacement by PCM, the strength loss is not significant for structural applications. The specific heat of the concrete increased considerably. Therefore, the thermal conductivity of the concrete is reduced and the insulation capacity of the concrete is also improved. A flexural test, drying shrinkage test, and microstructure analysis provide a good understanding of the PCM-modified concrete. Overall, the results presented in the paper show that it is quite promising to use PCM in concrete to improve its insulation capacity with decreased thermal conductivity and, at the same time, it is possible to keep the strength loss of the concrete in an acceptable range.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/13846872
• Authors:
  • Meshgin, Pania
  • Xi, Yunping
• Publication Date: 2012

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 71-80
• Serial:
  • ACI Materials Journal
  • Volume: 109
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: American Concrete Institute (ACI)
  • ISSN: 0889-325X
  • Serial URL: https://www.concrete.org/publications/acimaterialsjournal.aspx

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Compression tests; Microstructure; Portland cement concrete; Shrinkage; Thermal conductivity
• Uncontrolled Terms: Phase change materials
• Subject Areas: Highways; Materials; I32: Concrete;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01363858
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 27 2012 9:37AM