CPD - Phase Change Materials (PCM) for Energy Efficiency in Buildings

One of the most common uses of power is for heating and cooling inside a house, office, and other types of buildings. Since we need it for our daily activities, it uses plenty of energy, some of which comes from fossil fuels, such as coal, gas, and oil. However, using this type of fuel is harmful to the surroundings and creates harmful gases that lead to climate change. In preventing it, we are using alternative phase change materials (PCM) to store heat energy.

PCMs are substances that can absorb and release heat energy over some time. It works through a process of melting and solidifying to store and release heat. These types of substances can be found in thermal insulation and management. In most cases, the change happens between solid to liquid. Therefore, phase change materials have the capability of taking or releasing an amount of energy compared to normal.

These substances can be another option for heating and cooling systems. When the PCMs melt, they absorb a large amount of heat from the environment. Then, when they solidify, they release latent heat. Because of this process, it is possible to maintain the desired temperature condition for a long time.

What materials are used in phase change?

The three types of phase change materials are organic, inorganic, and eutectic. The main difference between them is the materials they are made from. Each type has its functions, benefits, and disadvantages. Still, they all serve the same purpose, to store heat energy, help with cooling systems, and keep the temperature stable in buildings.

To use them properly, you need to know the differences between each type. Here are the explanations of the three types of phase change materials:

Organic 

Organic phase change materials come from things like paraffin, plants, animals, or fuel. They are the most common type because they are cheap, easy to find, and stable. People mostly use paraffin in cooling systems since it can absorb and store a lot of heat.

Advantage – One good thing about organic PCMs is that they are safe to use and easy to recycle. They can hold a lot of heat, which helps keep temperatures stable in buildings.

Disadvantage – The problem with organic PCMs is that they can catch fire easily because they are flammable. Also, they don’t transfer heat well when they turn solid, which can lower their performance.

Inorganic 

Inorganic phase change materials are made from things like metals and salt hydrates, which are minerals or natural salts. They are known for storing a lot of heat and transferring it well. Salt hydrates are often used because they work in high temperatures, from 8°C to 120°C.

Advantage – The best thing about inorganic PCMs is that they store lots of heat and don’t easily catch fire. They also don’t change shape much when heated, making them safe and reliable.

Disadvantage – However, inorganic PCMs can cause corrosion and break down over time. Sometimes, they fail to release stored heat properly, a problem called supercooling. Because of this, they need special containers to handle them safely.

Eutectic 

Eutectic phase change materials are a combination of two or more organic or inorganic substances. Manufacturers carefully mix these materials to create specific melting points, allowing for better control over energy storage and release.

Advantage – Eutectic PCMs can store more heat in a smaller space. They are also customisable, meaning you can create them to melt at the exact temperature you need for a project.

Disadvantage – The downside is that they can smell bad because of the mixed materials. Making them is also expensive and complicated. Plus, they don’t store as much total heat as other types of PCMs.

Course Introduction

The CPD - Phase Change Materials (PCM) for Energy Efficiency in Buildings course provides information on how PCMs can help to save more power for learners. In this course, they will know how to use this type of substance and understand how it works. From this training session, the learners will achieve study goals, such as:

1. Understanding the basics of phase change materials
2. The use in saving energy on buildings
3. Choosing the substances and reviewing the performance
4. Design and implementation in buildings
5. Knowing the benefits for the environment
6. Challenges and future trends

From this course, the learners will have an understanding of using phase change materials to improve energy efficiency in buildings. Moreover, they will have the knowledge and skills to apply these substances with proper assessment of the needs. Lastly, the learners can improve productivity and help to lower the cost of the project.

Programme Outline

Throughout this training session, the learners will study the definition of phase change materials and their roles in saving energy in buildings. Moreover, they will know how to integrate them into walls, roofs, floors, and HVAC systems to provide stable indoor temperatures. Then, the learners can review PCMs' performance and the compatibility with building parts. From this study, they will learn about:

• Introduction to phase change materials
• PCMs in building energy efficiency
• Choosing and the performance standards of PCMs
• The design and appliance
• Impact on energy use and environment

After the programme, the learners will have the confidence to use this knowledge on their building projects to lower energy use. Moreover, they can achieve that through activities throughout this training, such as presentations and discussions. By the end of the course, the learners will receive a certificate as proof of the CPD hours they have gained.

Admission Requirement

The Phase Change Materials (PCM) for Energy Efficiency in Buildings course is available to those who are interested in this topic. However, this is suitable for people who have backgrounds in construction, structure engineering, and property management. When you are taking this training, you are expected to have basic knowledge of heat transfer principles and heat energy storage concepts.

Learn about phase change materials with CCM

Currently, we are using most of the power from fossil fuels so we can create heating and cooling systems in buildings. However, these sources are ruining the environment and causing more problems. Therefore, the construction sector is using phase change materials to help in lowering the use of power for cooling and heating. 

In supporting a building to become eco-friendly, the College of Contract Management offers you the CPD - Phase Change Materials (PCM) for Energy Efficiency in Buildings course. It provides the necessary knowledge and skills to understand PCMs and how they work in buildings. As a result, you will have the ability to do building projects that aim for lower energy use. 

However, that’s not the only thing you will get. Through this training, you will become a stand-out in this field with the information you have learnt. In particular, many buyers and investors are looking for eco-friendly buildings. Finishing this course will open your chances to grow your career into a better one.

At this moment, the CPD - Phase Change Materials (PCM) for Energy Efficiency in Buildings course is still in development. When there are any updates, they will be shared on this course page. While waiting, you can look at other amazing courses that are available on the CCM site. If you need more information, we encourage you to contact the CCM team through email.