Mechanical and thermophysical properties of cement mortars including bio-based microencapsulated phase change materials

This study investigates the mechanical and thermophysical performance of cement mortars incorporating microencapsulated phase change materials (mPCMs), which consist of an aqueous dispersion of 100% bio-based fine core–shell particles. A specific protocol was used to manufacture the mortar samples, which ensures a homogeneous particle distribution and prevents microcapsule leakage. The addition of mPCMs to the mortar causes both a decrease in density, an increase in porosity, and a substantial loss of mechanical strength. Conversely, hot-disk characterization revealed a large improvement in the thermal performance. The system containing 8 wt% mPCMs exhibits a good balance between its mechanical and thermal properties.