Replacing natural aggregates with phase change material-based 3D printed aggregates in concrete for structural function and dual thermal energy storage


Gencel O., Er Y., GÜLER O., Ustaoğlu A., SARI A., Subaşı S., ...Daha Fazla

Journal of Energy Storage, cilt.151, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 151
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.est.2026.120555
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Energy Storage
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: 3D-printed aggregates, Artificial aggregate, Energy and energy efficiency, Latent heat storage, Phase change materials, Sustainable construction materials
  • Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Extraction of natural aggregates for concrete not only depletes non-renewable resources but also causes habitat loss, groundwater disruption, and carbon emissions. At the same time, sustainable and energy-efficient construction demands materials capable of reducing operational energy. Integrating phase change materials (PCMs) into cementitious systems is promising for passive thermal regulation, yet conventional methods (microencapsulation, coatings) suffer from leakage, poor dispersion, and weak bonding. This study proposes replacing natural stone with 3D-printed smart aggregates embedding 50 wt% methyl palmitate (MP), combining structural compatibility with latent-heat storage. Concretes with natural aggregates (NA), synthetic aggregates (AA), and PCM-integrated aggregates (AAPCM) were compared in this study. At 28 days, compressive strength dropped from 92.99 MPa (NA) to 58.39 MPa (AA) and 44.34 MPa (AAPCM); ultrasonic pulse velocity decreased from 4.49 to 4.26 to 3.91 km/s. Thermal conductivity reduced by ∼52% (1.26 → 0.606 W/m·K). DSC confirmed latent-heat storage of 224 J/g (MP) and 109 J/g (AAPCM) with >99% retention after 500 cycles. Outdoor tests showed up to 5 °C surface cooling and delayed heat release near 26 °C. Thus, PCM-integrated aggregates mitigate the environmental burden of quarrying while delivering thermally adaptive concretes, suitable for façades, pavements, and energy-resilient building envelopes.