Thermal and energy performance evaluation of a full-scale test cabin equipped with PCM embedded radiant chilled ceiling

The escalating global demand for space cooling has led to the emergence of new cooling technologies, including the phase change material embedded radiant chilled ceiling (PCM-RCC) system. This technology improves en-ergy efficiency and indoor environmental quality, while also offering demand-side flexibility. The present study experimentally evaluates the thermal efficiency and energy performance of a PCM-RCC system in a full-scale test cabin equipped with PCM panels. Here, the transient thermal behaviour of PCM ceiling panels besides the cooling energy delivered during charging-discharging cycles are examined. The indoor thermal comfort and peak electricity demand reduction enabled by the present PCM-RCC are also discussed. The results reveal that chilled water circulation for 4-5 h overnight was sufficient to fully recharge the PCM panels. Over 80% of the occupancy time was classified as "Class B '' thermal comfort according to ISO 7730. The system's daily electricity usage was mostly concentrated during off-peak hours, accounting for similar to 70% of the total usage. While the controlling schedule used in this study responded to the transient thermal behaviour of the indoor space and PCM ceiling panels, a more dynamic, predictive schedule is necessary to improve the system's overall efficiency and further enhance indoor thermal comfort in response to the changing environmental conditions.