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Metal building envelopes in seismic areas Building envelopes in lightweight metal construction, such as sandwich panels or multi‐shell constructions with trapezoidal profiles, are frequently used in industrial and commercial construction. These initially only have a space‐enclosing effect and are dimensioned according to the loads resulting from wind and temperature effects or snow loads. As part of an IGF/FOSTA research project, the aim was to determine the extent to which the roof and wall elements fulfil a stiffening function in the event of an earthquake. To this end, roof and wall elements and their connections to the substructure were examined with regard to their cyclical behaviour, energy dissipation capacity and functionality after seismic events. Detailed tests were carried out on connections, large‐scale tests on shear bays and building physics investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel deep-learning framework for predicting the thermal appearance of building envelopes under varying weather conditions based on a new dataset collected using a thermal infrared camera at 10 min intervals over a one-and-a-half-year period. Unlike existing studies that rely on simulated data or physical models that do not always accurately reflect the complex heat transfer processes in real buildings, we have collected a large dataset showing how a building behaves under different climatic conditions. We propose a novel deep-learning approach that integrates weather data and thermal imagery to predict the temperature distribution on the building façade for the next 24 and 48 h. The model uses a state-of-the-art recurrent neural network architecture, PredRNN V2, with an action conditioning mechanism to incorporate weather forecasting data into the prediction process. We evaluate this approach in terms of average accuracy, prediction accuracy in specific regions, and visual-perceptual performance of the images. The proposed framework achieves a prediction accuracy of 1.5 °C (root mean square error—RMSE) for the 24 h prediction and 2.04 °C (RMSE) for the 48 h prediction, outperforming baseline models in terms of temperature prediction accuracy and structural similarity of the predicted images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately measuring the actual building performance would be a significant step toward performance contracting. Methods under occupancy have operational advantages but come with additional constraints due to the variability of weather and occupancy conditions, which cannot be overlooked. Especially in recent, well-insulated buildings, since solar gains are a larger contribution to the global heat balance. This work aims to enhance the accuracy of the Heat Transfer Coefficient estimation in an occupied building by taking better account of solar gains in multilinear regression models. The approach adopted here considers solar gains from both the incident solar heat flux through glazing and from the opaque elements of a building by calculating an equivalent outdoor temperature. This model feeds a multilinear regression model whose parameters are estimated by Bayesian inference. Our model for estimating HTC is validated against a set of virtual data from a simulated detached house under different weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the energy efficiency and climate resilience of existing buildings is crucial amid growing environmental challenges. While extensive research has focused on non-residential buildings, studies on thermo-hygrometric conditions in warehouse-type buildings, particularly in subtropical climates, remain limited. This study investigated the impact of building envelope deficiencies on indoor thermal and moisture regulation at the Nori Distribution Center. Using infrared thermal imaging and long-term environmental monitoring, significant thermo-hygrometric fluctuations were identified, primarily due to design and construction deficiencies. Poor insulation, inadequate sealing, and the lack of moisture barriers contributed to unstable indoor temperature and humidity. Seasonal analysis showed that during summer, the median second-floor air temperature reached 28.8 °C, peaking at 39.2 °C, with relative humidity exceeding 70% for 45% of the time. First-floor relative humidity surpassed 70% for 72% of the time. While condensation risk remains low year-round, it increases significantly with air infiltration through gaps in the building envelope. This study recommends enhancing the sealing of the building envelope, upgrading insulation materials and moisture barriers, particularly in the roof, and optimizing the HVAC system to improve energy efficiency and storage conditions. These findings offer valuable recommendations for retrofitting warehouse-type buildings in subtropical climates to improve energy efficiency and climate resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive construction systems have always characterized traditional architecture and are currently the most prevalent, straightforward, and cost-effective in many Mediterranean countries. However, in recent years, the construction industry has gradually shifted towards using lightweight, dry construction techniques. This study aims to assess the effects on energy consumption, comfort levels, and environmental sustainability resulting from the adoption of five high-performance construction systems in a multi-family residential building: (i) reinforced concrete structure with low-transmittance thermal block infill; (ii) reinforced concrete structure with light-clay bricks and outer thermal insulation; (iii) steel frame; (iv) cross-laminated timber (CLT); (v) timber-steel hybrid structure. To achieve this goal, a multidisciplinary approach was employed, including the analysis of thermal parameters, the evaluation of indoor comfort through the adaptive model and Fanger's PMV, and the quantification of environmental and economic impacts through life cycle assessment and life cycle cost applied in a long-term analysis (ranging from 30 to 100 years). The results highlight that heavyweight construction systems are the most effective in terms of comfort, cost, and long-term environmental impact (100 years), while lightweight construction systems generally have higher construction costs, provide lower short-term environmental impacts (30 years), and offer intermediate comfort depending on the thermal mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper deals with the application of microalgae in building's façade, regard to the broader project comprising the aspects of the environmental comfort of academic spaces and the energy consumption with on-grid photovoltaic generation, as well as the investigation of alternatives for the improvement of the performance of the building envelopes. Thus, its main objective is the application of interdisciplinary concepts involving Architecture and Biotechnology, as known by Black Ecologies, referring to an investigative interest to explore a new approach of nature, not only related to architectural space, but an emergent environmental focus. This relationship is performed by using photobioreactors with microalgae, installed on the façades of buildings for educational use. The present work presents the methodological outline of the research, based on literature review and case studies; complementary experimental methodologies are also presented to contextualize the subject and its application and feasibility. The current state of art showed an emergent approach in terms of international level, but in the Brazilian context any further research was identified yet. In addition to thermal and energy performance, the strategies will allow the process of sequestration of carbon dioxide and other GHG (greenhouse gases) that impacts on the process of climate change and can contribute to reach the sustainable development. This subject coincides with the discussions of the 2050 scenarios and emission reduction, which were faced at the recent COP-27 and its connections with an integrative way to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article emphasizes the significance of understanding the actual thermal properties of thermal insulation materials, which are crucial for avoiding errors in building design and estimating heat losses within the energy balance. The aim of this study was to analyse the thermal parameters of selected thermal insulation materials, particularly in the context of their stability after a period of storage under specific conditions. The materials chosen for this study include commonly used construction insulations such as polystyrene and mineral wool, as well as modern options like rigid foam composites. Experimental studies were conducted, including the determination of the thermal conductivity coefficient λ, as well as numerical analyses and analytical calculations of heat flow through a double-layer external wall with a window. The numerical analyses were performed using the TRISCO software version 12.0w, based on the finite element method (FEM). A macrostructural analysis of the investigated materials was also performed. The findings indicated that improper storage conditions adversely affect the thermal properties of insulation materials. Specifically, storing materials outdoors led to a deterioration in insulating properties, with an average reduction of about 4% for the standard materials and as much as 19% for the tested composite material. Insufficient understanding of the true thermal properties of insulation materials can result in incorrect insulation layer thickness, degrading the fundamental thermal parameters of external walls. This, in turn, increases heat loss through major building surfaces, raises heating costs, and indirectly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air movement dries surfaces by increasing evaporation and convection, which may prevent mould growth. Cladosporium sp. is used as the test organism (dominant fungi in the envelope of rural houses in hot summer and warm winter areas), and the effect of fans on inhibiting mould growth on building materials is investigated. Surface mould growth on materials was simulated and compared after rain leakage and surface condensation, and spore germination was studied in high humidity, with or without airflow. The results are as follows: (1) Airflow has an evident inhibitory effect on mould growth on wet building materials. This observation was linked to the availability of moisture content in the building materials. (2) Airflow can slow the appearance of visual mould on the material surface. Mould did not appear on the gypsum surface due to the airflow, and mould growth on a wood surface was delayed for about two days. (3) Periodically, spore eluates were examined by electron microscopy to determine the stage of spore germination, and it was found that airflow delayed mould spore germination for about 2–3 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is an important element of the effort to address global warming. The thermal performance of building envelopes is the most important thermal and physical property affecting energy performance. Therefore, identifying the thermal performance of a building envelope is essential to applying effective energy-saving measures. The U-value is a quantitative indicator of the thermal performance of the building envelope quantitatively. Methods for determining the U-value are largely classified into passive methods, which use building information without measurement campaigns, and active methods, which conduct in situ measurements. This paper reviews and evaluates the most commonly used methods and experimental results of previous studies to determine the actual U-value of a building envelope. Accordingly, this paper focuses solely on field measurement studies, excluding laboratory measurements. Comparing the existing methods used to determine the U-value can help researchers choose appropriate field measurement methods and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the research gap concerning the impact of thermal diffusivity on cooling energy consumption in buildings, specifically in the context of Saudi Arabia's hot climate. The objective is to determine the optimal thermal diffusivity of building walls for different climate conditions in Saudi Arabia to minimize the cooling energy consumption of residential buildings. The study analyzes four locations in Saudi Arabia, namely, Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, and Tabuk, to understand the correlation between optimal thermal diffusivity and cooling degree days. The study includes numerical modeling using the finite-difference method and developing a calibrated building energy model of an existing residential building. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate the influence of thermal conductivity and heat capacity on cooling energy consumption. Correlation analysis is performed to assess the relationship between optimal thermal diffusivity and cooling degree days. The results highlight the importance of finding a balance between thermal insulation and thermal mass for energy-efficient buildings, considering the unique climate conditions in Saudi Arabia. Finally, this study considered the development of the Saudi Energy Conservation Code (SBC-602), which provides guidelines and regulations for energy-efficient building design in Saudi Arabia by recommending the selection criteria for the optimal thermal properties of building walls while considering the outdoor climate conditions. By aligning the findings of this study with the requirements and recommendations of the SBC-602, the study aims to contribute to the effective implementation of energy-efficient strategies in building design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A residential building in Qinghai is taken as the research object,the variation law of the inner and outer surface temperature of the wall under different heat transfer coefficients and solar radiation absorption coefficients was studied by Energy Plus simulation software,and the heat flux density was compared and analyzed. The results show that increase the solar radiation absorption coefficient can effectively improve the average temperature of the outer surface of the wall,and reduce the heat transfer coefficient can effectively improve the average temperature of the inner surface of the wall. The solar radiation absorption coeffi cient has the greatest influence on the average heat flux density of the south wall,followed by the roof,and the smallest is the north wall. The heat transfer coefficient has the greatest influence on the average heat flux density of the north wall,followed by the roof,and the smallest is the south wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate-adaptive building shells (CABS) are designed to dynamically respond to environmental parameters, unlike the static facades of traditional buildings, which cannot adjust to external conditions. Traditional building facades often fail to adapt to varying climatic conditions, negatively affecting thermal comfort, visual comfort, and energy efficiency. This limitation is particularly noticeable in office environments, where the quality of the internal environment significantly impacts both staff efficiency and user satisfaction, making it crucial to maintain optimal conditions. This paper aims to (I) explain the reasons for selecting CABS to enhance the performance of building facades and (II) design and present a new example of such a façade. To achieve this, a CABS was designed and evaluated on the facade of an office building in Kermanshah using Rhino-Grasshopper software. The performance of this facade was assessed based on its ability to maintain thermal comfort, provide visual comfort, prevent glare, and offer adequate lighting for office use. Simulation data analyzed using Grasshopper software revealed that implementing CABS in rooms with direct light exposure adjusted the radiant temperature within the comfort zone 73% of the time, representing a 35.3% improvement over conditions without CABS. These adaptive shells minimize solar heat absorption during peak heat hours, balance internal temperature fluctuations, and, depending on the room's orientation, reduce solar ray intensity, light glare, and the number of dazzling light hours per year. CABS convert sunlight into Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI) suitable for office environments. Consequently, the use of CABS led to a 79.5% increase in useful light levels and improved UDI quality and efficiency compared to non-CABS situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for sustainable building materials and systems with the emphasis on energy efficiency is on the rise. Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) are an example of such structural systems. Screen Grid Insulated Concrete Forms (SGICFs) are an innovative system that combines structural strength and thermal performance. ICF walls are commonly used in Western countries to provide high-level insulation and internal weather control. Accordingly, the current research conducts a comparative thermal analysis for a market-supplied ICF wall, a SGICF proposed design, and three typical brick walls used regionally in the Middle East. The heat transfer through the five walls is simulated by COMSOL Multiphysics and validated experimentally by utilizing a guarded hot box facility under the regulations of the ASTM C1363 standard. The market-supplied ICF walls showed better thermal insulation properties than the proposed SGICF walls, because of their higher thermal mass of concrete than in the SGICF walls. However, both walls had a remarkably higher insulation performance than the other three typical brick walls available in the market. The results reveal that the market-supplied ICF walls are overdesigned for use in the Middle East region, and SGICFs, with their comparative thermal transmittance, are a very good competitor in the Middle East market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising urban temperatures, noise and air pollution, and the loss of biodiversity are pressing problems in cities worldwide that call for action at different scales to improve the livability of urban areas. This study focuses on the role that buildings and façade design play in the urban environment, exploring how their informed design might help mitigating these environmental issues at a local scale. It explores the field by means of a systematic review aimed at identifying the impact of façade design choices focusing on three main design variables: material, geometry, and vegetation in façades. Scopus and Web of Science databases were explored between 17 April and 20 April 2023, ending up with 121 scientific articles, then categorized and data-mined to allow for descriptive statistical analysis to discuss scientific results obtained via digital simulation or empirical measurements. Risk of bias was addressed through double revision of the gathered sample. This study ends with the identification of desirable façade attributes based on their reported impacts, in terms of material properties, geometric operations, and main vegetation parameters, which we discuss by outlining compatibilities and clashes between them to guide conscious building design decisions to improve the urban ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The paper deals with the application of microalgae in building’s façade, regard to the broader project comprising the aspects of the environmental comfort of academic spaces and the energy consumption with on-grid photovoltaic generation, as well as the investigation of alternatives for the improvement of the performance of the building envelopes. Thus, its main objective is the application of interdisciplinary concepts involving Architecture and Biotechnology, as known by Black Ecologies, referring to an investigative interest to explore a new approach of nature, not only related to architectural space, but an emergent environmental focus. This relationship is performed by using photobioreactors with microalgae, installed on the façades of buildings for educational use. The present work presents the methodological outline of the research, based on literature review and case studies; complementary experimental methodologies are also presented to contextualize the subject and its application and feasibility. The current state of art showed an emergent approach in terms of international level, but in the Brazilian context any further research was identified yet. In addition to thermal and energy performance, the strategies will allow the process of sequestration of carbon dioxide and other GHG (greenhouse gases) that impacts on the process of climate change and can contribute to reach the sustainable development. This subject coincides with the discussions of the 2050 scenarios and emission reduction, which were faced at the recent COP-27 and its connections with an integrative way to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This paper examines the use of Phase Change Materials (PCM) in Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. To assess the performance of BIPV–PCM systems, the study employs a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis. The study features the advantages of using PCMs with BIPV envelopes. The benefits include lower heating and cooling requirements, shifted peak loads and increased thermal comfort. However, there are several challenges like heat loss and lower energy efficiency which needs to be addressed. Further, the potential for reduced PCM efficiency over time is recognized. The paper concludes by recommending further research on alternative PCM placement strategies, enhanced PCM formulations, gypsum board integration and the evaluation of PCMs combined with nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an analysis of challenges and available solutions for exterior insulated panels suitable for deep energy retrofits of existing building envelopes. The analysis covers a review of available technologies that provide flexible retrofit insulated panels suitable for multiple climates and building typologies. Moreover, the paper proposes a new design for insulated retrofit panels that account for the majority of identified technical risks including cost, architectural diversity, climate variations, structural concerns, moisture resilience, air sealing, and water sealing. Additionally, the proposed design can be easily installed with minimal disruption to the occupants. A series of parametric and optimization analyses is carried out to identify the optimal design specifications for insulated panels suitable for deep retrofits of existing US housing stocks. The analysis results show that the optimal design criteria for the insulated panels can reduce heating and cooling energy consumption by up to 80% and HVAC capacities by 70%. Moreover, the results indicate that these insulated panels are highly cost effective for retrofitting US housing units located in cold climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large proportion of building energy consumption in tropical countries like Thailand primarily comes from air conditioning systems used to maintain the comfort level of building occupants. This paper aims to evaluate the performance of an alternative cooling system based on the evaporative principle in terms of thermal characteristics and energy consumption. A simulation model using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software ANSYS version 16.0 and an actual experimental setup at the laboratory level were built to verify the results of the proposed cooling system. Additionally, factors that influence performance, such as components of the building envelope and the building's orientation, are considered. This research aims to demonstrate the impact of building envelope material and building characteristics on the energy usage in air conditioning systems and to propose an energy-efficient cooling system. The results demonstrate that the proposed cooling system can reduce the temperature inside the building. However, the characteristics of the building also affect the energy performance. Thus, the proposed cooling system, in combination with an efficient envelope material, can achieve energy savings of around 35–43%. Therefore, a combination of the proposed cooling system and optimal building design can ensure comfort for building occupants while saving energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoor air quality determines the comfort, health, and wellbeing of people in buildings. Windows are the optimal elements for providing natural ventilation and fresh air, but the outside contains suspended particles that can be harmful in high concentrations. This work presents an openable and double-glazed façade component with a cavity that includes a series of slats that filter the air and depurate it by means of a photocatalytic reaction (TiO2). This component integrates the functions of ventilation, solar protection, and air purification, which were analysed in the slat and the façade component to approve a preliminary design. To this end, it was applied to a specific case, a non-residential building at a latitude 41° N in a Mediterranean climate. The results show the optimal dimensions according to solar radiation and ventilation in this specific case and the method used to obtain them, along with the increase in the temperature of the incoming air with respect to the outside (10 °C). Finally, the results obtained from a photocatalytic coating sample show that the NOx degradation can be up to 9%. All these results confirm the applicability of this component in buildings and pave the way for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The building envelope serves as a barrier against climatic conditions and as insulation to prevent energy waste within buildings. As global energy shortages become more pressing, the requirements for building envelopes are becoming increasingly stringent. Among the available technologies, phase change materials (PCMs) stand out for their high latent thermal energy storage and temperature stabilization capabilities. This paper reviews the recent advancements in PCM technology for building envelopes, starting with an overview of organic, inorganic, and eutectic PCMs, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. The paper explores various incorporation methods such as shape stabilization, macroencapsulation, micro/nanoencapsulation, and solid–solid transition techniques. The integration of PCMs enhances thermal inertia, reduces thermal fluctuations, and delays heat peaks, presenting several multifunctional benefits. However, challenges such as fire hazards, potential toxicity, pollution, reduced mechanical performance, and higher initial costs persist. In light of these challenges, criteria for PCM integration in building applications are introduced. Additionally, the paper reviews recent hybrid technologies that combine PCMs with other novel technologies for building envelopes, including radiant temperature regulation systems, thermochromic windows, passive radiative cooling coatings, and others. It is shown that these PCM-integrated hybrid technologies significantly improve energy savings and indoor comfort. PCMs offer substantial potential for modern green building strategies and have further applications in other building contexts. Finally, the paper provides future prospects for studies in this field, aiming towards a green and energy-saving future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent development of powder-bed additive manufacturing promises to enable the production of architectural structures that combine high resolution and articulation with economies of scale. These capabilities can potentially be used for functionally graded metamaterials as part of the building envelope and structure, paving the way for new functionalities and performances. However, designing such multifunctional structures requires new design and modelling strategies to control, understand, and generate complex geometries and their transcalar interdependencies. The work presented here demonstrates a modeling framework that can unite multiple generative and organizational algorithms to create a unified, 3D printable building element that integrates a range of functional requirements. Our methods are based on an understanding of stigmergic principles for self-organization and developed to allow for a wide range of application scenarios and design intents. The framework is structured around a composite modeling environment based on a combination of volumetric modeling and particle-spring systems, and is developed to negotiate the large scalar range necessary for such applications. We present here a prototype demonstrator designed using this framework: Meristem Wall, a functionally integrated building envelope fabricated through a combination of powder bed 3D printing and CNC knitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy consumption in student dormitories, key living and study spaces, is a major concern for institutions and communities. This paper proposes a multi-objective optimization model to address the issue of incomplete single-dimensional analysis in existing research. Firstly, optimization was conducted separately for the external walls, windows, and roof to study different parts of the building envelope. Secondly, a student dormitory in a hot summer and cold winter region was used for a comprehensive optimization analysis. The study compared energy consumption, carbon emissions, and costs with the original building, showing a 31.79% reduction in energy savings (ESR), while carbon emission savings (CESR) and cost savings (CSR) increased by 57.18% and 15.58%. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate window configurations for sustainability. Optimized thermally broken Low-E glass windows save 5.6% in annual energy consumption compared to aluminum alloy double-glazed windows, with only a 0.03% increase in energy consumption and a 4.49% rise in costs. Long-term, optimized windows provide greater positive feedback for energy efficiency. This case study offers insights for retrofitting buildings with good wall performance but poor window performance and emphasizes the comprehensive decision-making authority of designers and policymakers in sustainable renovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The public sector should reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions from the building stock, thereby serving as a role model for the private sector. In Korea, public buildings are leading the green remodeling business initiative as part of a carbon-neutral strategy. Building envelope retrofitting is essential for the green remodeling of existing buildings because it significantly affects the buildings' aesthetic appearance, occupant comfort, and energy usage. From the perspectives of constructability and cost, prefabricated envelope systems offer various advantages and can contribute to the growth of the green remodeling business. To develop an effective prefabricated envelope system, a thorough analysis of the existing building stock must be conducted. Therefore, this study aims to investigate existing public office buildings in Korea to obtain a better understanding of the considerations necessary for developing prefabricated envelope systems. The survey utilized the image search and road-view functions of map services, following an appropriate sample design. Based on the survey results, the characteristics of the building types and envelopes, as well as considerations for developing prefabricated envelope systems are discussed. Furthermore, this study quantitatively analyzed the energy conservation potential through building energy simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need to design buildings in compliance with the Paris Agreement goal requirements is urgent, and architects and engineers need to consider energy use and operational and embodied carbon requirements in doing so. Building envelopes will be an important element in the next generation of high-performance buildings and there have been significant advancements in recent years to develop building envelopes that help mitigate the building carbon emissions through energy-conserving low-embodied carbon or carbon-sequestering solutions. The key objective of this article is to present an overview of the state-of-the-art in the field of energy-efficient low-carbon buildings with a focus on envelope systems. This article provides a survey of the literature on energy use and carbon emissions of the United States building stock, presents recent advancements in energy-conserving building envelopes, and highlights reuse–reduce–sequester strategies that mitigate the embodied carbon of buildings. As materials are critical in reducing the energy consumption and carbon emissions of buildings, this paper also presents developments on diverse materials and building envelope solutions that have been effective in creating high-performance buildings, from insulation materials to phase-change materials and aerogels. Finally, the characteristics of a selected number of progressive net-zero-energy guidelines such as Passive House Institute (PHI) standards, Passive House Institute US (Phius) standards, the PowerHouse standard, and the BENG standard are discussed. The findings of this work highlight the increased focus on the design, construction, and engineering strategies that aim to mitigate the carbon emissions of buildings based on a holistic whole-life carbon mitigation approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the European Union, buildings account for 42% of the energy consumption and 36% of the direct and indirect energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing thermal power for heating purposes is crucial to achieve climate neutrality. The main purpose of this article is to identify the places in the building where it is possible to significantly improve energy efficiency through the use of appropriate construction and material solutions. This article contains a multi-aspect approach to the heat balance of a building. Solutions that have a direct impact on building energy consumption were analysed, taking into account architectural, technological, and material aspects. Particular attention was paid to energy-efficient design and material solutions for non-transparent and transparent external walls and thermal storage walls (Trombe walls). An analysis of heat transfer through building elements was carried out, along with the optimisation of energy-efficient solutions for non-transparent and transparent barriers. Two methods for determining the equivalent heat transfer coefficient Ue for solar active partitions are presented. The analysis presented in the work using the original method of the balanced heat transfer coefficient Ue is a testing ground for identifying unfavourable features of the building structure, as well as the most energy-efficient solutions that can be used in establishing standards for the construction and modernisation of buildings. The value of the Ue coefficient illustrates the actual heat transfer through the partition. Having Ue values for various structural solutions of building envelopes, the designer can easily select the most effective ones. The use of the presented methodology will allow for the optimisation of technical solutions for building elements to improve its energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Just a mystery box? Curtain wall of the Ronald O. Perelman Center of Performing Arts in New York A new New York landmark – the Ronald O. Perelman Center for the Performing Arts – rises in stony elegance alongside the World Trade Center. A unique, four‐sided facade of 7200 m2 encloses the ascetic, box‐shaped building. Rolled structural steel beams, split in two locations, were used for this purpose. Lap joint plates, secured with countersunk screw connections are mounted on the roof in order to comply with the architectural intention. All strap joints are designed at the limit of feasible edge distances and without raised contours, in order to bridge the substantial tolerance jump between the massive main structure and the filigree facade. But what questions arise when planning and manufacturing such an exposed building envelope? For steel production, the team not only had to overcome bureaucratic hurdles between DIN and ASTM/AWS, but also met the highest requirements for assembly quality, since all visible areas are mercilessly exposed. A first test setup in Germany helped to unmask significant pitfalls. The identified tolerances in the holes could be minimized in the structure with noteworthy precision and attention to detail. Thanks to this effort, almost 5000 individual glass panes, mounted on mega panels, reached their individual and pre‐planned final positions on the building surface – a logistics chain from the quarry where the marble stone was cut to the construction site in Lower Manhattan. Only the following essay shows where the devil is in the detail of such an architecturally challenging project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repointing is a prevalent maintenance practice in Northern Europe aimed at mitigating moisture-related damage in brick masonry buildings. Although commonly used, evidence of its effectiveness is limited. This study assesses repointing's role in reducing damage risks by conducting a probabilistic hygrothermal analysis of two wall types: timber frame walls and masonry cavity walls. Results indicate that repointing could reduce the mold index in timber frame walls and moisture content in the autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) layer of masonry cavity walls, particularly in walls with visible defects. However, its impact is minimal on walls without significant deficiencies. Moreover, the study suggests that repointing, given its labor-intensive and costly nature, may not always be the most judicious maintenance strategy. It recommends a selective repointing approach, suiting the specific conditions and needs of the wall based on its location, orientation, and existing state, rather than a blanket application across all façade sections.

The management of indoor humidity through equipment consumes massive energy, leading to the growing interest in passive regulation of indoor humidity via moisture buffering. Numerous factors may impact the performance of interior finishing material during moisture regulation, thus identifying the dominant parameters is critical for moisture buffering effect optimization. This study analyzes the influence of five moisture and surface parameters, which are directly related to the moisture transfer of the interior finishing layer, on the thermal loads in a typical office building under typical climates in China. The analysis employs scatter plots and sensitivity indices based on Sobol's method. The results show that the material thickness plays a decisive role under different climates. The importance of sorption isotherm varies with climates and load types. The vapor diffusion resistance factor of the material only affects the latent heat loads, while the effect of the surface vapor transfer resistance is negligible. Finally, this study puts forward suggestions for interior finishing material selection to achieve low-load performance based on the characteristics of parameter combinations.