Selection and integration strategies of PCMs in traditional bricks for thermal comfort and energy efficiency: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Traditional bricks, while being cost-effective and durable construction materials, exhibit limited thermal performance under extreme weather conditions, which can lead to uncomfortable indoor environments and increased energy consumption for heating and cooling. To address this issue, the integration of phase change materials (PCMs) into bricks has emerged as an area of interest in sustainable construction. PCMs have the ability to store and release large amounts of latent heat during phase transitions, acting as a thermal buffer that regulates indoor temperature. However, a comprehensive review on how PCM integration impacts thermal performance, energy savings, environmental effects, and costs—particularly in bricks—has not yet been published. This review examines strategies for the selection and integration of PCMs in traditional bricks, analyzing the different types of PCMs, their properties, and the most common integration techniques. The influence of brick design on thermal performance is discussed, along with the importance of building orientation to maximize system efficiency. Several studies demonstrate that the integration of PCMs into bricks significantly reduces indoor temperature fluctuations, heat flow, and cooling demand, thereby improving thermal comfort and energy efficiency in buildings. However, challenges remain, such as improving thermal conductivity, reducing costs, and ensuring the safety of PCMs. Future research is needed to optimize integration techniques, develop PCMs with enhanced properties, and establish safety guidelines, paving the way for the widespread adoption of this technology in the construction of more sustainable buildings.