Enhanced thermal management in building materials using PCM-hempcrete formulations

Abstract

This invention relates to an enhanced thermal management system for building materials using PCM-Hempcrete formulations, designed to optimize temperature regulation in urban structures. Traditional building materials often struggle with inefficient thermal performance, leading to increased energy consumption. The PCM-Hempcrete formulation integrates phase change materials (PCM) into hempcrete, allowing for dynamic heat absorption and release. This innovation results in a 30% improvement in thermal insulation and a 20% reduction in energy usage. The material is versatile and can be seamlessly integrated into existing building frameworks, providing a scalable and sustainable solution for energy-efficient construction.

Description

[0001] Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention pertains to advanced thermal management in building materials, specifically focusing on PCM-Hempcrete formulations to enhance energy efficiency in urban structures. The system integrates phase change materials (PCM) into hempcrete, allowing for optimized temperature regulation and reduced energy consumption. It lies at the intersection of materials science, energy conservation, and sustainable construction, aiming to improve thermal performance, minimize energy use, and support eco-friendly building practices. This invention is designed to promote sustainable development in modern urban construction by enhancing insulation and reducing the environmental footprint of buildings.

[0004] Prior Art:

[0005] In the field of thermal management in building materials, several patents have introduced notable innovations, yet the Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations demonstrates clear superiority in terms of versatility, adaptability, and technological advancement.

[0006] The patent TWI778378B describes a system for managing heat using polymeric phase change material (PCM) films that absorb and release energy at specific temperatures. While this is effective for cooling, heating, and insulation across various objects, its scope is limited to thin films and specific industrial applications. In contrast, our PCM-Hempcrete formulation not only provides efficient thermal regulation but also incorporates these phase change materials into construction materials, enhancing thermal management in a broader range of building applications, including residential and commercial structures. Additionally, our system’s use of hempcrete offers sustainable, eco-friendly benefits that are absent in TWI778378B.

[0007] Another patent, US20190092992A1 , addresses nanostructured PCMs designed for solid-state thermal management in applications like textiles, packaging, and building materials. While it offers efficient temperature regulation, it does not focus on large- scale construction applications. Our Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations leverages the use of PCMs within building materials, offering enhanced thermal insulation and energy efficiency specifically for urban structures. Furthermore, our system provides better adaptability across various climates and building sizes.

[0008] Patent US20220158273A1 describes a multilayer PCM composite structure for devices that generate heat, such as electronics and batteries. Though effective for device-level thermal management, it is limited to specific heat-generating equipment. In comparison, our PCM-Hempcrete formulation is designed to address thermal management at the building scale, dynamically absorbing and releasing heat to reduce energy consumption in construction while providing insulation benefits across a wide range of climates.

[0009] The patent US8221910B2 introduces a thermally regulating construction material that integrates polymeric PCMs into base materials like foam insulation. While this patent focuses on thermal regulation in insulation, our system offers a more comprehensive solution by integrating PCMs into hempcrete, a sustainable, eco-friendly material that enhances both the thermal performance and structural integrity of buildings. Our solution not only maintains stable temperatures but also contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of urban construction.

[0010] Patent US11411262B2 presents a thermal management casing for electrochemical cells, incorporating phase change materials to manage temperatures in electronic systems. Although it offers specific solutions for temperature regulation in battery systems, it is not applicable to large-scale construction. The Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations goes beyond such narrow applications, using PCMs to regulate building temperatures, providing broader environmental impact and significant improvements in energy efficiency for the construction sector.

[0011] Patent JP6445643B2 focuses on the use of functionally reactive phase change materials for integrating PCMs into textiles, improving thermal regulation. While it addresses limitations in microencapsulated PCMs and offers advancements in textiles, it does not extend its capabilities to the construction industry. Our invention, on the other hand, focuses on enhancing the thermal performance of buildings, integrating PCMs into hempcrete to create a more sustainable and energy-efficient solution.

[0012] Lastly, patent US10059865B2 concerns wax-based microstructures for PCMs, addressing issues like paraffin leakage and the stabilization of temperature-sensitive applications. Although it offers advancements in PCM configuration, it remains limited to specific industrial uses and does not address large-scale building applications. In contrast, our system combines PCMs with hempcrete to offer scalable thermal management solutions specifically for construction, improving energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs in buildings.

[0013] Description

[0014] Given the increasing emphasis on energy efficiency and the limitations of traditional building materials in regulating indoor temperatures, modern solutions are essential for sustainable construction. The Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations described in this application offers an innovative approach specifically designed to optimize thermal regulation in buildings. By integrating phase change materials (PCMs) into hempcrete, the system effectively absorbs and releases heat as temperatures fluctuate, maintaining stable indoor environments. This innovation reduces reliance on external heating and cooling systems, providing up to a 30% improvement in thermal insulation and a 20% reduction in energy consumption compared to conventional materials.

[0015] This invention is particularly timely given the global shift toward energy-efficient building practices and the need to reduce carbon emissions. Traditional building materials often fail to manage heat effectively, leading to higher energy demands for temperature control. The PCM-hempcrete system provides a more sustainable solution by enhancing thermal performance and supporting the increasing need for energy conservation in urban construction. It contributes to reducing the environmental impact of energy use in buildings, promoting resource conservation, and improving the overall energy efficiency of modern construction. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing building infrastructures, making it a scalable solution suitable for a wide range of construction projects. Its ability to dynamically adjust thermal regulation based on environmental factors ensures that the material performs efficiently across diverse climates and building sizes. This adaptability makes the PCM-hempcrete formulation an essential component in achieving energy-efficient, sustainable buildings. By addressing the challenges of energy consumption, climate control, and sustainability, the system offers a forward-thinking approach to construction that is critical for long-term urban development.

[0016] The Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations represents an advanced solution designed to optimize temperature regulation and energy efficiency in modern construction. This system integrates phase change materials (PCM) directly into hempcrete, creating a composite material capable of absorbing and releasing heat as temperatures fluctuate. By leveraging the unique properties of PCMs, the system provides effective thermal regulation, significantly reducing the reliance on heating and cooling systems in buildings.

[0017] The PCM-Hempcrete system continuously responds to changes in environmental conditions, adjusting its thermal management capabilities based on indoor and outdoor temperatures. The phase change materials absorb excess heat when temperatures rise, storing the energy and releasing it when the temperature drops, maintaining a more stable indoor environment. This approach enhances the overall thermal performance of buildings by up to 30%, while reducing energy consumption by 20% compared to traditional building materials.

[0018] The system is versatile, supporting a range of thermal processes, making it applicable for various types of construction, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Its adaptability allows it to perform efficiently across diverse climates and building sizes, ensuring optimal performance in both small and large-scale structures. Additionally, by incorporating hempcrete, the material offers environmentally friendly benefits, such as being renewable and biodegradable, further enhancing its contribution to sustainable construction. Designed to seamlessly integrate into existing building practices, the Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations is scalable and adaptable, making it suitable for new construction as well as retrofitting projects. This system is especially valuable in urban environments where energy efficiency, indoor comfort, and sustainability are critical. By providing a robust and eco-friendly solution to the growing demand for energy-efficient buildings, this invention addresses the challenges of thermal regulation, energy conservation, and environmental impact in modern urban development.

[0019] The Enhanced Thermal Management in Building Materials Using PCM-Hempcrete Formulations stands out for its integration of phase change materials within a sustainable and versatile building material like hempcrete. Unlike existing patents, which are often limited to specific applications or materials, our system provides a comprehensive, scalable solution for thermal management in the construction industry. This ensures continuous optimization of energy efficiency and indoor climate regulation, offering a broader impact on sustainable urban development [1],

[0020] This invention highlights several key areas of innovation: Thermal Management and Efficiency, which focuses on the ability of PCM-hempcrete to regulate indoor temperatures through dynamic heat absorption and release; Material Strength and Thermal Balance, showcasing the structural integrity of the material while maintaining optimal thermal efficiency; Energy Savings and Sustainability, where the material contributes to energy reduction and eco-friendly construction; and Adaptability to Climate Variations, highlighting the material's capability to perform efficiently in various climatic conditions.

[0021] 1. Thermal Management and Efficiency

[0022] The PCM-hempcrete formulation integrates phase change materials (PCMs) into a hempcrete matrix, allowing the material to dynamically absorb and release heat as environmental temperatures change. This innovation enhances thermal regulation within buildings, reducing the reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The system enables up to a 30% increase in thermal insulation and reduces energy consumption by 20% compared to conventional building materials. PCM-hempcrete is especially valuable in modern construction, as it stabilizes indoor temperatures and contributes to greater energy efficiency.

[0023] 2. Material Strength and Thermal Balance

[0024] The PCM-hempcrete formulation is designed to achieve a balance between mechanical strength and thermal performance. By combining the insulating properties of PCMs with the robust structural capabilities of hempcrete, the material serves both as a structural component and a thermal management system. This dual functionality allows it to be used in various applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The formulation ensures that thermal efficiency does not come at the cost of compressive strength, making it a versatile and durable building material.

[0025] 3. Energy Savings and Sustainability

[0026] PCM-hempcrete not only enhances thermal performance but also contributes to reducing the overall energy consumption of buildings. The material autonomously adjusts to indoor and outdoor temperature fluctuations, reducing the need for energy- intensive heating and cooling systems. By absorbing and releasing heat during phase transitions, PCM-hempcrete helps to reduce energy usage by up to 25%. Furthermore, the use of renewable and biodegradable hempcrete as the base material supports sustainable construction practices, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional building materials.

[0027] 4. Adaptability to Climate Variations

[0028] One of the standout features of the PCM-hempcrete formulation is its adaptability to diverse climate conditions. The material is engineered to dynamically adjust its thermal regulation properties based on local environmental factors, making it suitable for both temperate and extreme weather regions. The uniform dispersion of PCM particles within the hempcrete matrix ensures consistent performance over multiple thermal cycles, preventing phase separation and ensuring reliable thermal energy storage and release. This adaptability enhances its functionality in various global environments, ensuring long-term effectiveness and sustainability.

[0029] Drawings

[0030] Figure 1 presents the integration of phase change material (PCM) capsules into the hempcrete matrix. This figure illustrates how PCM particles are uniformly distributed within the hempcrete, enabling the material to absorb and release heat effectively during phase transitions, thereby providing enhanced thermal regulation in building materials.

[0031] Figure 2 provides a comparative analysis of the thermal properties of PCM-hempcrete composites. This figure demonstrates the thermal conductivity and latent heat capacity of various PCM-enhanced hempcrete samples, highlighting the energysaving potential achieved through the integration of Methyl Hexadecanoate PCM. The data emphasizes the improved thermal behavior of the PCM-hempcrete system over conventional materials.

[0032] Figure 3 illustrates the proportional variations in the composition of different PCM- hempcrete formulations. This figure highlights the changing mass proportions of the hemp shiv, lime binder, water, and PCM in various formulations (HCOPCM, HC5PCM, HC10PCM, and HC15PCM), providing insights into how these changes impact the material’s thermal and structural properties.

[0033] Figure 4 analyzes the porosity and density characteristics of hempcrete variants with differing PCM content. The figure shows a correlation between increased PCM content and reduced densities (dry and skeletal) while maintaining relatively stable porosity. This data supports the development of lightweight building materials with improved thermal performance using PCM-hempcrete composites. Figure 5 presents the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrum of Methyl Hexadecanoate PCM, showcasing its chemical structure and thermal stability. The figure reveals the characteristic absorption peaks, offering valuable insights into the PCM’s compatibility with the hempcrete matrix and its ability to retain thermal properties over repeated heating and cooling cycles.

[0034] Figure 6 illustrates the influence of varying PCM concentrations on the compressive and bending strength of hempcrete. This figure provides data on how increasing PCM ratios affect the mechanical properties of the material, allowing for the determination of the optimal PCM content that balances thermal efficiency and structural integrity.

[0035] Figure 7 compares the thermal conductivity of reference concrete samples to PCM- enhanced hempcrete. The figure highlights a substantial reduction in thermal conductivity for the PCM-hempcrete composites, showcasing the material’s superior ability to regulate indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency in building applications.

[0036] These figures collectively provide a comprehensive view of the PCM-hempcrete system’s potential for enhanced thermal management and energy efficiency, while also considering its structural and material properties for modern building applications.

[0037] References:

[0038] 1. Li, H., et al., A study on improving energy flexibility in building engineering through generalized prediction models: Enhancing local bearing capacity of concrete for engineering structures. Engineering Structures, 2024. 303: p. 117051.

Claims

Claims1.- A PCM-hempcrete formulation comprising phase change materials (PCMs) embedded within a hempcrete matrix, where the material autonomously absorbs and releases heat during phase transitions, thereby enhancing the thermal regulation and energy efficiency of building structures by maintaining stable indoor temperatures.2.- The PCM-hempcrete formulation of claim 1 , further comprising nano-scale additives, such as graphene oxide, integrated into the matrix to enhance thermal conductivity and heat transfer, optimizing the thermal management properties of the composite material in construction applications.3.- The PCM-hempcrete formulation of claim 1 , wherein the integration of PCMs and hempcrete provides both thermal insulation and structural support, allowing the material to function as a primary structural component while concurrently regulating indoor temperatures through dynamic heat absorption and release.4.- The PCM-hempcrete formulation of claims 1 and 2, wherein an optimized proportion of PCM is determined to achieve a balance between compressive strength and thermal efficiency, ensuring that the material maintains structural integrity while delivering enhanced thermal insulation.5.- A method for regulating indoor temperatures in buildings using the PCM- hempcrete formulation according to the preceding claims, characterized by the material’s ability to autonomously absorb excess heat during high temperatures and release stored heat as temperatures decrease, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling systems.6.- A method according to the preceding claims, wherein PCM particles are uniformly dispersed throughout the hempcrete matrix to prevent phase separation during repeated thermal cycles, ensuring reliable thermal energy storage and release, and prolonging the material's effectiveness over long-term use.

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