Multifunctional Cementitious Materials for Sensible and Latent Thermal Energy Storage: Advances, Challenges, and Future Perspective

Abstract

Cementitious materials are the most widely used construction materials worldwide. Beyond their structural function, they are increasingly recognized as multifunctional materials capable of contributing to thermal energy management and improving the energy performance of buildings. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of cement-based materials for thermal energy storage (TES), covering the fundamental mechanisms of heat transfer, the thermophysical properties governing thermal performance, and the principal TES technologies applicable to cementitious composites. Particular attention is given to sensible heat storage in conventional cement-based materials and latent heat storage achieved through the incorporation of phase change materials (PCMs), including PCM classification, encapsulation techniques, incorporation methods, thermal performance, and current limitations. The review also examines recent advances in multifunctional cementitious composites incorporating lightweight and porous aggregates, recycled materials, nanomaterials, carbon-based additives, fibers, and other functional constituents that enable simultaneous enhancement of thermal energy storage, heat transfer, mechanical performance, durability, and sustainability. The interactions and trade-offs between thermal, mechanical, and durability-related properties are critically discussed to identify the most promising material design strategies for practical applications. Finally, the review highlights the major scientific and technological challenges and outlines future research directions toward intelligent, low-carbon, and energy-efficient multifunctional cementitious materials for next-generation buildings.