The dielectric constant is the characteristic that determines the ability of a material to absorb, transmit and reflect energy from a portion of the electric field; it is constant for each material at a given frequency, under constant conditions.
Research carried out at the Polytechnic University of Valencia determined that significant energy savings can be obtained by using dielectric heat on materials with high thermal inertia, specifically concrete. Moreover, its versatility allows thermal activation of enclosures, floor slabs, floors and/or radiant walls.
But the real potential of this technology lies in its high thermal energy storage capacity so that, using low-power equipment, different parts can be exposed sequentially. In this way, we manage to maintain the whole at a suitable temperature with a relatively low system power (and also the contracted power). This feature, in combination with intelligent management systems based on the development of ICTs and data management ("Big Data"), which take into account the generation of renewable energies in the building itself, the cost of energy from the grid, weather forecasts, user behaviour and preferences, will enable comprehensive demand management and cover the air-conditioning demand of any type of building with strictly renewable energies, helping to achieve European targets for energy efficiency in buildings.
Conclusions
Dielectric heat on materials with high thermal inertia can be up to 70% more efficient than thermal energy transfer by conduction depending on the characteristics of the element to be heated.
The thermal inertia of concrete can help to significantly improve the energy efficiency of buildings.
On the other hand, the use of inertial systems not only benefits the users of the buildings where they are implemented, but also the system as a whole. The use of buildings as storage batteries flattens the curve, eliminating demand peaks and, therefore, also production peaks. This type of system avoids over-dimensioning the generation system for specific moments and, in addition, allows the existing over-production to be used during off-peak hours.
