Performance of the phase change material (PCM) to reduce freeze-thaw effect in cementitious composites

One of the contemporary approach to reduce the damage on cementitious composite resulted from freeze-thaw effect is the incorporation of the phase-change materials (PCM). In this study, the composites were produced adding n-tetradecane, which is a microencapsulated organic PCM, at rates of 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 % of the cement weight. In two different simulations representing the climate conditions of the two distinct regions in Türkiye, its effect on restriction in temperature amplitudes which the composite experienced, was determined. It is determined that the PCM, the working range of which is similar to the temperature range applied to the composite in simulation was more successful to reduce the temperature amplitudes and the rate and type of the PCM should be chosen thoughtfully according to the climate conditions, which the composite is desired to use. Moreover, besides PCM's thermal properties, its effect on the mechanical properties and consistency results were investigated.