Research trends and gaps in experimental applications of phase change materials integrated in buildings

This investigation presents a critical review analysis of the research on Experimental Applications of Phase Change Materials in Buildings specifically (Query 1) through a bibliometric analysis approach. In addition, two other queries were evaluated, one that includes costs (Query 2) and another that includes environmental impact (Query 3). This study aims to provide a holistic approach to the developments, trends, and research of the three queries assessed. In addition, we provide new insights and opinions on the results of this bibliometric analysis. The analysis retrieved a total of 333 documents found in the Web of Science database for the period 1993-2022, of which 19 included costs (Query 2), and only 3 included life cycle assessment (Query 3). Content analysis of the author's keywords revealed that most of the research has focused on the study of phase change materials followed by thermal energy storage. Also, China was the most productive, being represented in the affiliation of 22.5 % of all documents listed, and >82.3 % of the articles have been published since 2013. Overall, research on this topic is growing exponentially, but some gaps remain, particularly in the areas of environmental impact and cost. Consequently, this research serves as an orientation and guide for researchers seeking a better understanding of the main advances and gaps in this particular research area.