Optimizing Thermal Comfort and Carbon with Phase Change Material (PCM) Ceilings
Smarter ceilings for comfort and carbon reduction
Sponsored by Armstrong World Industries
Photo courtesy of Armstrong World Industries
The space features energy-saving ceiling panels equipped with phase change material (PCM) technology to reduce cooling demands.
This course examines how interior building materials can be leveraged to optimize the two primary drivers of occupant dissatisfaction: acoustics and temperature. Participants will explore the integration of phase change material (PCM) into acoustical ceiling systems to create more stable, comfortable indoor environments.
The program reviews the fundamentals of thermal mass and the science of PCM technology, demonstrating how these materials act as a thermal buffer to enhance occupant comfort throughout the daily heating and cooling cycle. Additionally, the course highlights how these innovative systems support broader sustainability goals—including operational carbon reduction and LEED certification—and provides an overview of available economic incentives such as the 48E Investment Tax Credit.
Armstrong World Industries is a leader in the design and manufacture of innovative commercial ceiling and wall systems. At home, at work, in health-care facilities, classrooms, stores, and restaurants, Armstrong Ceiling & Wall Solutions offer interior options that help
create healthy, sustainable spaces that protect people and cultivate well-being and comfort so they can be at their best.
Armstrong is committed to developing new and sustainable ceiling solutions, with design and performance possibilities that empower its customers to create beautiful, high-performance residential and commercial buildings. Armstrong continues to grow and prosper for the benefit of all its stakeholders.
armstrongceilings.com/commercial
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in June 2026
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Review the fundamentals of acoustical design and the role high-performance ceilings play in addressing occupant dissatisfaction and wellness within the built environment.
- Examine how thermal mass and Phase Change Materials (PCM) address indoor temperature regulation to enhance occupant comfort while supporting building energy performance.
- Analyze how the thermal benefits of Phase Change Materials impact occupant comfort and reduce operational carbon, while leveraging economic incentives such as federal tax credits.
- Evaluate the combined sustainability attributes of acoustical ceilings and Phase Change Materials technology, including their contribution to indoor environmental quality and green building frameworks like LEED.
