The significant energy consumption and contribution to greenhouse gas emissions by
the construction sector need careful attention to explore innovative sustainable solutions
for improving the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of building envelopes. The
integration of phase-change materials (PCMs) into building commodities is a favorable
technology for minimizing energy consumption and enhancing thermal performance. This
review paper covers the impact of PCM incorporation into construction materials, such
as walls, roofs, and glazing units. Additionally, it examines different embedding
techniques like direct incorporation, immersion, macro and micro-encapsulation, and
form and shape-stable PCM. Factors affecting the thermal performance of PCM-integrated
buildings, including melting temperature, thickness, position, volumetric change,
vapor pressure, density, optical properties, latent heat, thermal conductivity, chemical
stability, and climate conditions, are elaborated. Furthermore, the latest experimental
and numerical simulations, as well as modeling techniques, evident from case studies,
are investigated. Ultimately, the advantages of PCM integration, including energy
savings, peak load reduction, improvement in interior comfort, and reduced heating,
ventilation, and air-conditioning dependence, are explained alongside the limitations.
Finally, the recent progress and future potential of PCM-integrated construction materials
are discussed, focusing on innovations in this field, addressing the status of policies
in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and outlining research
potential for the future.
