Active PCM-Based Thermal Energy Storage in Buildings

Relying on phase change materials (PCM), latent heat storage (LHS) yields generally more compact solutions than sensible heat storage, making them ideal as thermal batteries in commercial and residential buildings. This study reviews the main active LHS technologies for buildings that have emerged in the last decade, as well the most relevant PCMs used for such applications. In addition, a detailed example of implementation of an active LHS in a building illustrates a simple step-by-step design method which was used in this case. A brief overview of the challenges and prospects for active LHS system in buildings is also given.