An experimental data-driven control strategy for PCM integrated radiant floor systems

Significant energy savings and thermal comfort improvement may not be achieved when radiant floor systems are adopted in lightweight building envelopes. Phase change materials (PCMs) are suitable candidates for providing the necessary thermal inertia. Within the 112020 European project IDEAS the integration of PCMs in a radiant floor was examined by the University of Ferrara trough numerical and experimental investigation. A first prototype was then installed in an experimental small building having a low thermal capacity. Analysis of the monitoring data for the heating period showed that solar radiation strongly impacts on the lightweight envelope in a short time. Without suitable control, the contribution of PCM, which slowly reduced its heat flux during solidification, resulted in an excessive increase in indoor air temperature, wasting PCM energy saving potential. The aim of the study is the evaluation of a control strategy to improve the management of PCM enhanced radiant floor systems in relation to weather conditions in lightweight buildings. The control routine was implemented in the corresponding dynamic energy model in TRNSYS.