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Integration of dynamic insulation and dynamic phase change materials systems for residential building envelopes

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  • Dahal, Utsav
  • Krarti, Moncef

Abstract

This study evaluates the energy performance of an innovative switchable phase change material (PCM) insulation systems when integrated as parts of residential building envelopes. The switchable PCM-insulation system dynamically repositions the PCM relative to the insulation in response to seasonal and daily temperature fluctuations. The energy effectiveness of the dynamic PCM-insulation system is evaluated across different US climates, including Golden, CO, San Francisco, CA, Phoenix, AZ, and Minneapolis, MN. The analysis reveals significant reductions in annual heating and cooling energy consumption — 37.4 % in Golden, CO; 69.8 % in San Francisco, CA; 20.9 % in Phoenix, AZ; and 25.8 % in Minneapolis, MN. The results of a series of sensitivity analyses reveal that the optimal PCM fusion temperature varies with the climate with 20 °C being the most effective for heating-dominated regions and 24 °C for cooling-dominated areas. Additionally, higher insulation R-values and dynamic switching ratios enhance the energy saving potential of the dynamic PCM-insulation systems particularly for mild climates.

Suggested Citation

  • Dahal, Utsav & Krarti, Moncef, 2026. "Integration of dynamic insulation and dynamic phase change materials systems for residential building envelopes," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PG).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:256:y:2026:i:pg:s0960148125021706
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.124506
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