Grantee Research Project Results
Multi-Layer Phase-Change Material Insulation
EPA Grant Number: SU836789Title: Multi-Layer Phase-Change Material Insulation
Investigators: Boetcher, Sandra
Institution: Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University
EPA Project Officer: Page, Angela
Phase: I
Project Period: September 1, 2016 through August 31, 2017
Project Amount: $15,000
RFA: P3 Awards: A National Student Design Competition for Sustainability Focusing on People, Prosperity and the Planet (2016) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: P3 Awards , P3 Challenge Area - Sustainable and Healthy Communities , Sustainable and Healthy Communities
Description:
Develop a prototype multi-layer PV insulation that will increase building energy efficiency. The research will also provide insights into enhancing the heat transfer of mixed and multi-layer phase-change material panels.
Objective:
The goal of this EPA P3 Phase I project is to improve building efficiency by implementing either multi-layer or composite phase-change material (PCM) insulation. Approximately 40% of the energy consumption and 70% of the electricity use in the United States is due to buildings. A major way that building energy consumption can be reduced is through novel building materials, such as composite materials containing PCMs, which control the flow of heat in and out of building roofs, walls, and floors. The insulation will be designed for homes located within the southeastern United States, particularly Florida.
Approach:
The research has two aims: (a) the first aim is to investigate the efficacy of using multiple, separate layers of PCM on maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures over various times of day and seasons, and (b) the second aim is to determine the effect on mixing different PCMs with different melting points on the desired indoor temperature. The approach will be to use both numerical simulation and physical experimentation.
Expected Results:
The expected result of the EPA P3 Phase I project is a prototype multi-layer PV insulation that will increase building energy efficiency. Further, the research conducted will provide insights into enhancing the heat transfer of mixed and multi-layer PCM panels.
Publications and Presentations:
Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 3 publications for this projectSupplemental Keywords:
Phase-Change Material, Building Energy Efficiency, Solar, HVAC;Progress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.