U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Building Technologies Office

Shape-Stable and Highly Conductive Nano-Phase-Change Materials Research Project

The Department of Energy is currently conducting research into shape-stable and highly conductive nano-phase change materials.

Project Description

This project seeks to develop a new phase-change material (PCM) that complements high heat storage capacity in order to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings and other systems.

Project Partners

Research is being undertaken between the Department of Energy and Technova Corporation.

Project Goals

The goal of this project is to refine the formulation and processing conditions of hybrid nano-PCMs in order to optimize them for incorporation into building products. Field tests will be conducted to evaluate performance of these hybrid nano-PCMs to determine their competitive merits in terms of performance, initial and life-cycle economy, market appeal, and sustainability.

Benefits and Impacts

The PCM materials created will improve the energy storage and thus overall energy efficiency of the building materials with which they are incorporated, which will help save consumers money.

Related Links

Contact Information

Patrick Phelan
Patrick.Phelan@ee.doe.gov