Optimization study of phase change material in building hollow bricks: Numerical analysis

To face the energy and climate challenges, the building sector is increasingly oriented towards energy efficiency, especially towards measures that improve the performance of the building envelope. In this context, hollow bricks are used as one of the main construction materials. However, they have a lower thermal performance in regions with a harsh climate. Under these conditions, it is essential to improve research into passive cooling and heating strategies, as well as the development of new low-cost building materials and components. It is with this in mind that this work has been carried out. It aims to study and improve the thermal behavior of bricks by integrating phase change materials (PCMs). Physical modeling and numerical analysis of heat transfer through hollow bricks containing PCM were performed. The influence of PCM properties and their location are studied and discussed. The results showed that the PCM introduced in the air cavities can improve the thermal inertia of the brick but has low insulation. However, the use of PCM in location (D) stabilizes and reduces indoor temperature fluctuations.