Abstract:
In the present study, optimization of PCM layer thickness and melting temperature to increase the
energy-saving potential of the office building located in eight cities in the Cfb climate zone was
conducted using the Fanger model. The sensitivity of the energy savings to the selection of PCM melting
temperature was quantitatively analyzed using a novel indicator of average savings drop. Additionally,
the investigation of the effect of real PCMs on the energy performance of the building located in Cfb
climate as well as the economic and environmental analyses were accomplished. The results showed
that the PCM layer with a thickness of 2 cm reached the highest values of energy savings per unit
thickness. The optimization of the PCM melting temperature revealed that PCM 22–25 were optimum
for the whole Cfb climate zone and resulted in energy consumption reduction values of up to 37.6%. The
sensitivity analysis showed that the steadiness of the outdoor climate conditions affects the sensitivity
of the energy savings to the selection of PCM melting temperature. The analysis of real PCMs revealed
that PCM 25-r demonstrated more efficient performance in all cities. Overall, it was concluded that
the integration of PCM can be considered an economically and environmentally feasible solution.