Preparation and Analysis of External Walls with the Phase Change Facing Tile for Energy Savings

The external surface of the building envelope absorbs large amounts of heat after long periods of solar radiation especially in the hot summer, leading to a dramatic increase in the cooling load and energy consumption. Phase change material (PCM) possesses the ability to reduce building energy consumption and improve thermal comfort when it is integrated with the building envelope. In this study, paraffin /expanded graphite (EG) composite phase change material was prepared to fabricate facing tile for building envelopes, with phase change facing tile (PCMT) attached to exterior walls and roofs. To present the full role played by the paraffin/ expanded graphite composite phase change material, microstructure, thermal and physical properties characteristics were investigated, thermal performance experiment of facing tile was carried out. The results showed that the maximum inner surface temperature difference between the PCMT and the ceramic tile reached 2.5°C, the maximum temperature time lag was 51 min. A simulation in EnergyPlus was used to evaluate the availability of using PCM to improve the energy efficiency of the building under the Guangzhou climate. The results showed that 2.65% energy savings were achieved. These results showed that PCM has thermal insulation performance, which would affect the indoor temperature and reduce building energy consumption to some extent.

SUBSTANTIATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL POSSIBILITIES OF THE METHOD FOR STRENGTHENING DECORATIVE PROCESSING OF LOW-VALUABLE WOOD

Hardwood is traditionally used for the production of finishing materials. Its high cost due to scarcity is a key factor holding back demand for solid wood products. Replacing hardwood with low-value and low-liquid raw materials helps to reduce the cost of production. Thanks to the technologies of modifying low-value wood based on pressing and heat treatment, it is possible to improve its natural properties and expand the areas of use. The paper discusses a multistage method of strengthening decorative processing of blanks from low-value wood based on firing, brushing, pressing and heat treatment. The introduction of the method into industry is constrained by the lack of scientifically grounded recommendations for its application. The purpose of the work is to study the possibility of using this method for the manufacture of finishing materials and facing parts. Systematization of information on combined multistage methods of processing wooden blanks has made it possible to identify their significant industrial potential. The differential method of qualimetry substantiates the expediency of a combination of four technological operations: firing, brushing, pressing and heat treatment. Multi-stage processing contributes to a comprehensive increase in aesthetic, physical-mechanical and protective properties of the blanks. The optimal sequence of operations included in the method has been determined through comparative analysis. A prototype of the facing tile was made based on the method. The results of evaluating the operational properties and manufacturing technologies of this facing tile (in comparison with analogues) have confirmed the possibility of using the method of strengthening decorative processing for the manufacture of finishing materials.