Abstract
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Thermal evaluation of non-deform laminated composite phase change material (PCM) gypsum board has been carried out. The theoretical studies covered the analysis of different thicknesses of PCM layers and
their corresponding heat transfer rates during energy storage and discharge processes. A simply
approach was also provided for determining the appropriate thicknesses of PCM layer under various
conditions. For the purpose of experimental study and validation, a laminated gypsum board consisting
of a 4 mm PCM layer was evaluated in a naturally ventilated condition. It achieved a maximum heat
exchange of 15.6 W/m2 and a maximum energy storage of 363.7 kJ/m2. A model room built with the
laminated PCM gypsum boards was also evaluated and achieved a maximum temperature reduction of
5 C as compared with 1.8 C for the one with ordinary gypsum board. Even though about 25% of the
energy stored could not be released within the targeted period, the overall thermal performance of the
PCM gypsum board was quite remarkable. Further heat transfer enhancement mechanism may therefore
be necessary for the energy discharge process