Region: All States
Assessor Question:
Can I use 100 to 200mm concrete towards the inside in walls to replace the PCM? Also, I am including them in the ceiling (we have a flat roof) how can I model them for the ceiling in NatHERS?
TechLink Response:
- CSIRO have a list of new materials to add to the CHENATH program. Phase Change Materials is one of them.
- Accordingly, till that happens, it is not possible to model PCM in regulatory mode.
- For design advice to a client as to how the building will perform it is possible to include other thermal mass materials like concrete to arrive at a reasonable approximation.
- That said, water is available in the materials library with powerful thermal mass performance attributes.
- Water is heavy to add to floors or ceilings but is relatively easy to add into walls by constructing suitably spaced noggins as shelves for bottles.
- The best results are achieved in winter for walls that have direct sun exposure. Wall colour will also make a difference.
- Summer benefit is achieved for walls that are shaded and can be cooled with night purge ventilation.
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