5. Applications of phase-change materials

5.1 Selection criteria

The main selection criteria to be taken into account, particularly in the case of building applications - by far the most numerous today - are as follows:

• melting temperature in accordance with application ;

• high latent heat ;

• high density ;

• low cost ;

• low hazard, environmental compatibility ;

• stability over time ;

• reliability of containment materials ;

• low undercooling....