Bitcoin “mining” refers to the process of validating transactions within the Bitcoin network, known as the blockchain. Since Bitcoin operates as a digital currency, ensuring the authenticity of each coin exchanged is crucial to prevent counterfeiting. The vulnerability of double-spending poses a significant threat to the value and security of this digital currency. To address this, miners or network participants use computational power to verify the history of bitcoins involved in a transaction. Each block of transactions is meticulously examined to confirm that the bitcoins have a valid history within the blockchain. If a counterfeit coin is detected, the transaction is rejected.

This process operates on a Proof of Work Mechanism, where the user who successfully verifies the transaction is rewarded with a predetermined amount of bitcoin, giving rise to the term “mining.” The extent of computational power a user possesses determines their likelihood of solving a block and receiving the reward. These computations are generally performed using CPUs or GPUs, which consume energy.

Bitcoin’s network-wide energy consumption is considerable, indicated by the Bitcoin Energy Consumption Index, estimated to be around 199.41 TWh per year – equivalent to the power consumption of a sizable country. This energy usage translates into an estimated carbon footprint of 94.72 Mt of CO₂ annually, akin to the emissions of an entire country like Thailand.

Recognizing the ecological concerns posed by Bitcoin’s energy usage and its associated carbon emissions, extensive research is being conducted to develop technologies that mitigate these impacts. One promising approach involves incorporating Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into the mining equipment itself and the infrastructure that houses it. This innovative idea aims to lower the temperature of electronics and mining warehouses, thereby reducing the energy needed for cooling and optimizing operational efficiency. The feasibility of applying PCMs in this context is being explored as a potential solution to enhance the sustainability of bitcoin mining and contribute to a greener digital currency ecosystem.

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PCMs can be incorporated into various construction materials such as wall panels, roof panels, wall insulation, and concrete floors. By integrating PCMs into wall panels made of plasterboard or drywall, for instance, the temperature of a room can be decreased by up to 4 degrees Celsius. Similarly, PCMs can enhance the thermal performance of roof panels, wall insulation, and even concrete floors. Notably, PCM-infused concrete floors offer substantial energy savings due to their direct contact with the ground, which enables efficient heat conduction.

Beyond building applications, PCMs have shown promise in optimizing air conditioning systems. Cold storage devices equipped with PCMs can charge during off-peak hours when cooling loads and power demand are low. These devices release stored cold energy during peak hours, supporting the main cooling system and helping to maintain desired temperature ranges within buildings while reducing operational costs.