Performance requirements, challenges and existing solutions of PCM in massive concrete for temperature control

Abstract

The development of new solutions and techniques targeted towards better control of the temperature rise in massive concrete at early ages aiming at the reduction of thermal cracking risk, is of paramount importance, namely in respect to durability. To mitigate this issue, one of the most researched solutions that has attracted most interest is the incorporation of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into massive concrete. PCMs have the capacity to store and release energy in the form of heat within a specific temperature range. The application of PCM in massive concrete, with a melting temperature point/range in between the casting temperature of concrete and the expectable peak temperature (had PCM not been added in the mixture), has the potential to reduce the internal temperature rise, and associated temperature gradients. Therefore, the internal thermal stresses are reduced, and consequently the inherent thermal cracking risk. This paper carries out a critical review on requirements and challenges of different applications of PCMs into massive concrete structures.