DESCRIPTION
The project focuses on analyzing the thermal, hygrothermal, and fire resistance performance of adaptive building envelopes made with lightweight concrete (LWC) and phase change materials (PCM). Through experimental and numerical studies, the aim is to develop innovative methods to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, helping to reduce CO₂ emissions and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to sustainable infrastructure, responsible consumption, and climate action.
The research promotes the design of passive systems for nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEB) and zero-energy buildings (ZEB), by developing adaptive envelopes that can adjust their thermal performance according to climatic conditions. The combination of LWC and PCM is studied to optimize properties such as thermal conductivity, heat storage capacity, and mechanical strength, under normal conditions and after fire exposure.
The project includes small-scale experimental testing and the development of advanced numerical models using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The results aim to support climate change mitigation, reduce building energy demand, and foster sustainable construction. The project also seeks to transfer knowledge to industry and the scientific community, with potential for new patents and utility models.
