29 Sep 2023

Enhancing Building Thermal Comfort: A Review of Phase Change Materials in Concrete

Abstract: The DoD accounts for over 1% of the country's total electricity consumption. However, DoD bases heavily rely on vulnerable commercial power grids, susceptible to disruptions from outdated infrastructure, weather-related incidents, and direct attacks. To enhance energy efficiency and resilience, it is imperative to address energy demand in buildings, especially heating and cooling. This study focuses on phase change materials (PCMs) incorporated into concrete to enhance thermal control and reduce energy consumption. Though PCMs have shown promise in heat transfer and energy storage applications, their integration into concrete faces challenges. Concerns include potential reduction in compressive strength, impacts on workability and setting time, effects on density and porosity, durability, and higher cost than traditional concrete. This report examines current obstacles hindering the use of PCMs in concrete and proposes opportunities for extensive research and application. By selecting appropriate PCMs and additives, comparable strength to control samples can be achieved. Moreover, specific techniques for incorporating PCMs into concrete demonstrate greater effectiveness. Embracing PCMs in concrete can significantly contribute to energy-efficient and resilient DoD installations.

12 May 2020

PUBLICATION NOTICE: Seismic Testing of an Indigenous Material Troop Constructible Building

Abstract: An indigenous materials construction system was developed by a Small Business Innovative Research project – Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) project Contract W9132T-15-C-0002. The results of that project included the construction of a full scale 16 foot by 32-foot troop constructible building that was tested on the Engineer Research and Development Center, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (ERDC-CERL) shake table. This report documents the seismic testing of this building. The building consisted of prefabricated frames with interior and exterior wall panels and roof and ceiling panels. The building was tested with 30-second-long synthetic seismic motions, which began at low levels. The test amplitude was increased so that the final test conducted used motions based on a spectral acceleration tied to the highest seismic hazard in the United States. The base of the building was badly damaged in this final test, but it remained stable, demonstrating relatively good behavior. This report documents the measured response to these motions and the performance of the building.