Improving Thermal Comfort and Reducing Peak Cooling Loads in High-Rise Buildings Through the Use of Phase Change Materials in Enhanced Building Envelopes

Volume: 08 | Issue: 01 | Year 2025 | Subscription
International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology
Received Date: 09/23/2024
Acceptance Date: 11/16/2024
Published On: 2025-01-25
First Page: 29
Last Page: 37

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By: Nirmita Mehrotra and Aditya Sanyal.

1. Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture & Planning, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
2. Ph.D.Research Scholar, Department of Architecture & Planning, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

A potential remedy for the problems of peak cooling loads and thermal discomfort in high-rise buildings is the use of phase change materials (PCMs) into building envelopes. This study explores the potential of PCMs to enhance energy efficiency and occupant comfort by reducing heat gain and moderating indoor temperature fluctuations. The paper investigates various PCM types, integration methods, and their impact on building performance through simulations and experimental analysis. The findings highlight the effectiveness of PCMs in shifting peak cooling loads, reducing energy consumption, and creating a more stable and comfortable indoor environment. The study also addresses key considerations for PCM implementation, including material selection, encapsulation techniques, and optimal placement within the building envelope. By leveraging the thermal storage capabilities of PCMs, this paper contributes to the development of sustainable and resilient high-rise buildings that offer improved energy performance and occupant well-being. High-rise buildings face significant challenges in terms of energy consumption and occupant comfort, particularly in regions with hot climates. A considerable portion of energy use in these buildings is attributed to cooling systems, which are often strained to manage peak loads during hot weather. Traditional building envelope designs may not adequately address these challenges, necessitating the exploration of innovative solutions. This study investigates the potential of incorporating phase change materials (PCMs) into building envelopes to reduce peak cooling loads and enhance thermal comfort within high-rise structures.

Keywords: Phase change materials (PCMs), high-rise buildings, energy efficiency, thermal comfort, peak cooling loads, sustainable design

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Citation:

How to cite this article: Nirmita Mehrotra and Aditya Sanyal Improving Thermal Comfort and Reducing Peak Cooling Loads in High-Rise Buildings Through the Use of Phase Change Materials in Enhanced Building Envelopes. International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology. 2025; 08(01): 29-37p.

How to cite this URL: Nirmita Mehrotra and Aditya Sanyal, Improving Thermal Comfort and Reducing Peak Cooling Loads in High-Rise Buildings Through the Use of Phase Change Materials in Enhanced Building Envelopes. International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology. 2025; 08(01): 29-37p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/ijsbt/article=15414

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