Incorporation of Phase Change Materials in Straw-Based Composites: Thermal Characterization

The aim of this research was the development of an energy-efficient composite material based on straw and phase change material (PCM). Straw-based composites are good thermal insulators but do not have the ability to store energy. PCMs are proven in energy storage and temperature regulation and have the ability to store and release significant thermal energy during phase transitions. The research was experimental in which four groups of samples were prepared, with different compositions of binders and incorporation of PCM. The samples were tested using the hot-guarded plate method and thermal conductivities were determined. The results showed that straw-based composites with PCM are promising and can lead to sustainable construction solutions, offering improved thermal performance. Statistical analysis confirmed that the addition of PCM to the straw-based composite insignificantly changed the thermal conductivity but improved the heat storage capacity of the composite.