This invention is a structural insulated panel which incorporates macroencapsulated phase-change materials (PCMs). The panels have been shown to significantly reduce peak heat flux in tests conducted at the University of Kansas (See downloadable photographs of test building fabricated with this material.)The design of the new material provides a lightweight, high strength, insulated panel, which is easily fabricated, modified and installed. The panel also has decreased flammability and coatability as compared to imbibed phase change boards. The new material is expected to meet industry standards.

The PCMs are alkyl hydrocarbons (paraffins), which change from solid to liquid and back to solid as a function of the wall temperature. The PCMs used have their solid-to-liquid transition between about 72 F and 86 F (22 C to 30 C).

Preliminary findings from research conducted at the University of Kansas show that the integration of macroencapsulated PCMs in insulated walls offer the potential to reduce wall peak heat flux by as much as 40 percent based on wall orientation, quantity of PCM used, and wall insulation level. (See the downloadable figure for a graph of test results.)

The average wall heat flux reduction was 20 percent when all orientations were taken into account and when 10 percent of PCM (by OSB weight) was used. The peak heat flux reductions were highest in west-facing walls (19 percent) and lowest in north-facing walls (8 percent). Total heat transferred across the envelope over a seven-day period was reduced by approximately 14 percent.

File Number: 2003 FY 29 

Web site: http://www.ceae.engr.ku.edu/

Other Information: *State of Development* This material has been tested and is available for licensing.