Phase change materials incorporation into 3D printed geopolymer cement: A sustainable approach to enhance the comfort and energy efficiency of buildings

The advent of 3D printing has revolutionized conventional construction, offering cost-effective and fast construction of complex structures. Nevertheless, there remain challenges to be addressed regarding the effective integration of functional additives into 3D printing construction materials. Herein, we present a straightforward and environmentally friendly approach to promote sustainable buildings while reducing energy consumption. This is achieved by integrating Macroencapsulated Phase Change Materials (MEPCM) into a 3D printable geopolymer paste (GPP) derived from fly ashes. The research followed a systematic methodology, encompassing the assessment of fresh and hardened properties of geopolymer pastes with varying amounts of MEPCM, analyzing their thermal properties, and investigating the thermal performance by printing miniature houses without and with 20 vol% MEPCM. Notably, MEPCM demonstrated its dual functionality as a thermal energy management component and a viscosity modifier for 3D printable geopolymer paste. Overall, this study paves an innovative path toward sustainable construction, highlighting the significance of energy efficiency and waste reduction.