This project explored integrating phase change material (PCM) to increase the energy storage capacity of building materials in Trombe walls, a passive solar system. PCMs absorb and release thermal energy during the changing of phases. For this project, a water-based gel was explored, contained in PVC tubing within a standard modular concrete brick. A brick configuration with an 8.5% increase in heat capacity was found through thermal tests. These results combined with solar modeling to create a thermal simulation yielded a 9.6% increase in useful passive energy release compared to standard Trombe walls, and a cost analysis predicted 22% savings in heating costs. Finally, policy incentives and funding mechanisms were discussed to aid the implementation of PCM-containing passive solar systems.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Driscoll, Emma
• Veth, Jade
• Liscouski, Nathan
• Cork, Maren
• Abatiello, Sarah
• Smith, Sydney

Subject

• Project-Based Learning
• Innovation
• Environment
• Sustainability
• Energy
• Infrastructure

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 106146
• E-project-042723-124044

Keyword

• Phase Change Material
• Passive Solar
• Policy and Funding
• Energy
• Trombe Wall

Advisor

• Stoddard, Elisabeth Anne
• Guceri, Selcuk

Year

• 2023

UN Sustainable Development Goals

• 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
• 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities

Date created

• 2023-04-27

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Chemical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Source

• E-project-042723-124044

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2023-06-14