Integrated Evaluation of Bio-Based Phase Change Materials to Reduce Operational and Embodied Carbon in Service Buildings Across Multiple Climate Zones

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of bio-based phase change materials (bio-PCMs) to reduce both operational and embodied carbon in Moroccan service buildings. Using EnergyPlus 8.3 simulations and life cycle assessment (LCA), the research evaluates the integration of five bio-PCM types across six Moroccan climate zones. Results show that climate-specific PCMs can lower heating and cooling energy demands by up to 20.3% and 28.0%, respectively, leading to operational CO2 emission reductions between 17.0% and 24.0%. Bio-PCM Q25 performed best in Coastal, Mediterranean, and Saharan zones, Q23 in Continental and Mountainous areas, and Q29 in hot-arid climates. In parallel, bio-based PCM M27 exhibited an embodied carbon of only 0.08 kgCO2/kg over 97% lower than conventional PCMs like paraffin or stearic acid. These findings confirm that optimized bio-PCM integration, combined with passive design strategies, offers a robust solution to decarbonize buildings in hot and diverse climates like Morocco. The study provides practical guidelines for material selection and policy direction toward climate-adapted, low-carbon construction.