Review on the Applications of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for Building Envelopes

Building envelopes play an important role in buildings. They not only supply the living conditions for the residents but also prevent the negative effect from the nature climate to the indoor. Integrate phase change materials with building enclosure could improve human comfort with low energy consumption. This review paper focuses on the characteristics and applications of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for building envelopes. It analyzes the thermal properties, chemical properties and physical properties of the appropriate phase change materials and reviewed the primary works on the PCM wallboards, roofs, ceilings, windows and floors. And finally, it is ended by the suggestions of the future study.