What is the latest on phase change building materials?
Based on research for a plan to commercialize a new salt hydrogel with lower cost, higher efficiency, it appears th market is stalled with applications limited to niches. I'm not selling anything, but I am looking for insight. Jon Tirpak, PE
Phase change building materials are a fantastic way to regulate heat in a home and save energy, though they are regrettably not common. Here is some background on the concept and a bit about pcm building supplies that we know of -
All about phase change building materials and natural heat storage in buildings
Certainly PCMs in homes would be far superior than typical materials for regulating temperatures and helping reduce the burden on heating and cooling infrastructure, but don't underestimate the advantages of including thermal mass in homes for energy efficiency.
We were hopeful that phase change drywall with wax beads would make more of an impact in the green home building community than it has just yet, so if you or anyone knows of any new PCM materials on the market please let us know in the comments section below!
While clearing vegetation is important, the true defense lies in the balance between defensible space vs structural hardening.