Armstrong Templok Shows Potential For Thermal Energy Storage With Phase Change Materials - CleanTechnica

The article discusses Armstrong’s new Templok ceiling tiles that incorporate Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage, offering a novel approach to passive temperature regulation in buildings. These lightweight ceiling panels contain a thin PCM layer that can absorb and release heat at room temperature, effectively providing the thermal mass equivalent to 11 bricks per tile. This allows the tiles to moderate indoor temperature fluctuations by storing heat when temperatures rise and releasing it as they fall, reducing energy loss during ventilation and helping to prevent condensation. The system typically uses PCM in about two-thirds of the ceiling tiles, with the remainder being standard tiles to accommodate features like sprinklers and lighting. Armstrong projects that this PCM ceiling system can reduce energy costs by up to 15%, which is significant given the large HVAC energy consumption in commercial buildings. The effectiveness depends on temperature variations near the ceiling, making it particularly beneficial in environments with large day-night temperature swings, such as deserts, or buildings with intermittent operating hours. Additionally, the system could