Article
Energy & Fuels
Teng Guo, Guochen Sang, Yangkai Zhang, Xiaoling Cui
Summary: The application effects of phase change material (PCM) embedded in buildings were examined in six representative regions of western China. The results showed that the effectiveness of PCM depended on local climate conditions, thickness, and location. It was necessary to use an auxiliary heating system (AHS) for winter heating in passive solar buildings. The use of PCM in conjunction with AHS resulted in improved thermal energy storage and reduced discomfort, with the highest energy and carbon dioxide emission savings in Lhasa and the lowest in Urumqi.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Federico Orsini, Paola Marrone, Silvia Santini, Lorena Sguerri, Francesco Asdrubali, Giorgio Baldinelli, Francesco Bianchi, Andrea Presciutti
Summary: This study investigates the potential of adding Phase Change Materials (PCM) to cement-based mixes and compares the effects of different ratios of PCM on material performance. The results show that as the PCM ratio increases, the strength of the mix decreases, but it remains suitable for masonry structures and exhibits good insulating properties.
Article
Thermodynamics
V Ljungdahl, K. Taha, J. Dallaire, E. Kieseritzky, F. Pawelz, M. Jradi, C. Veje
Summary: This study investigates the theoretical and experimental aspects of a Phase Change Material (PCM)-based ventilation system module, developing a numerical model to predict the system's dynamic performance. The optimal PCM melting temperature is found to significantly increase cooling capacity compared to the reference temperature. The study highlights the importance of PCM mass and melting temperature in optimizing the efficiency and performance of the PCM-driven ventilation system.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Fadhil A. M. K. Al-Malaki, Hasanen M. Hussen, Goker Turkakar, Rahim Jafari
Summary: This study examines ventilation, thermal comfort, and energy management in overcrowded areas like prisons, using a prototype of a prison quarry in Baghdad. By embedding phase change materials in the ceiling, the cooling energy consumption of the building was reduced, resulting in a significant energy saving.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Mustapha Salihi, Maryam El Fiti, Yasser Harmen, Younes Chhiti, Ahmed Chebak, Fatima Ezzahrae M'Hamdi Alaoui, Mounia Achak, Fouad Bentiss, Charafeddine Jama
Summary: Passive latent heat thermal energy storage technologies with phase change materials (PCM) can effectively improve indoor comfort and reduce energy consumption in occupied buildings. This study investigates the parameters for the effective utilization of PCM-enhanced integrated building walls in a semi-arid climate. The results show that PCM-integrated walls can reduce cooling and heating loads, improve indoor comfort, and the optimal PCM for the semi-arid climate is RT-28 HC. Additionally, double layers and triple layers of PCM provide more efficient energy consumption reduction compared to single-layer PCM, and mechanical ventilation has a positive impact on the performance of PCM walls.
CASE STUDIES IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Rayane de Lima Moura Paiva, Lucas Rosse Caldas, Adriana Paiva de Souza Martins, Patricia Brandao de Sousa, Giulia Fea de Oliveira, Romildo Dias Toledo Filho
Summary: This research evaluated the effects of different mixtures of bio-based earth mortars on building thermal properties and greenhouse gas emissions. The results showed that using bamboo particles can significantly improve the thermal performance of mortars and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jiahui Yu, Yu Dong, Yuhan Zhao, Yang Yu, Yang Chen, Haibo Guo
Summary: Due to global warming, residential buildings in severe cold and cold regions of China face overheating risks, which can seriously affect people's comfort and health. This study aims to reveal the overheating risk and verify the effectiveness of using PCM to alleviate overheating in these regions through simulation.
CASE STUDIES IN THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Sandro Nizetic, Miso Jurcevic, Duje Coko, Muslum Arici, Anh Tuan Hoang
Summary: This study investigated various PVT-PCM solar collector designs and analyzed the thermal properties of PCM materials used in these systems. Results showed that PVT-PCM collector design greatly impacts system efficiency, with electrical efficiency improvement usually less than 20% and thermal efficiency improvement up to 70%. Existing literature lacks in addressing the economic and environmental evaluation of PVT-PCM systems, highlighting the need for further research in this area.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Nessrine Essid, Anissa Eddhahak, Jamel Neji
Summary: This paper investigates the energy efficiency of PCM-concrete wallboards through experimental and numerical methods. The results show that PCMs play a key role in reducing indoor temperature and thermal fluctuations of different PCM-wallboards, with delayed temperature peaks emphasizing the enhanced energy efficiency of PCM-wallboards compared to traditional concrete, especially for bilayer wallboards.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Aurang Zaib, Abdur Rehman Mazhar, Tariq Talha, Muhammad Inshal
Summary: This study investigates a phase change material-based heat exchanger for indoor temperature stabilization in continental climate zones typical of Southeast Asia. Experimental tests on eight different cases reveal that the configuration using forced convection during both charging and discharging provides the best thermal performance. This solar-powered PCM-HX, which is capable of maintaining temperature differences and reducing energy consumption, has the potential to minimize domestic heating loads and greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional heating technologies currently used in Southeast Asia.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Bernardo Buonomo, Oronzio Manca, Sergio Nardini, Renato Elpidio Plomitallo
Summary: The effects of metal foams on a latent heat thermal energy storage system based on a phase change material were numerically investigated. The results indicate that the melting time reduces with increase in the thickness of the metal foam.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
M. Samykano
Summary: Thermal energy storage using phase change materials (PCM) has shown great potential in addressing energy fluctuation issues in solar energy. However, the low thermal conductivity of PCM hinders its storage and heat transfer capabilities. Recent research has focused on thermally enhanced PCMs as a solution for improving thermal conductivity and heat transfer. Various techniques such as increasing heat transfer surface area, using highly conductive porous foam materials, and utilizing nano dispersed PCMs have been explored. The use of porous materials/foam dispersed PCM has shown significantly improved heat transfer and storage capacity. Additionally, organic PCMs are widely used due to their long-term stability, low or no supercooling, low or no corrosion, and recyclability.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Vicente Zetola, Luis J. Claros-Marfil, Alfonso Garcia Santos, Fco. Javier Neila Gonzalez
Summary: The study evaluated the effects of incorporating PCM based on paraffins into Portland cement mortar mixtures, showing that the PCM-added mixtures require more water and cement to achieve similar compressive strengths and result in a decrease in density. The maximum compressive strength was achieved with a 15% PCM content, while values beyond 40 MPa were obtained with 5% PCM content.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Fernando Claudio Spengler, Rejane De Cesaro Oliveski, Luiz Alberto Oliveira Rocha, Cesare Biserni
Summary: This study parametrically analyzed the effect of extended surfaces' proportion and positioning on the melting process of lauric acid in an annular cavity. Numerical simulations were used to investigate 46 different geometric configurations. The results showed that systems with horizontal extensions had a 15% higher melting rate compared to systems with vertical extensions, and increasing the thinness of the extended surface reduced the overall melting time.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
N. B. Lima, D. Silva, P. Vilemen, H. C. B. Nascimento, F. Cruz, T. F. A. Santos, R. Oliveira, Y. Povoas, E. Padron-Hernandez, N. B. D. Lima
Summary: Chemical interactions in cement-based materials, such as the strength of hydrogen bonds and SiO2/(Ca(OH)2 stoichiometric ratio, play a crucial role in determining the adhesion ability of mortars with metakaolin. This study developed a theoretical model that successfully predicted the adhesion capacity of mortars with metakaolin. Experimental tests confirmed the presence of important phases in the microstructures of the mortars, and the adhesion strength agreed with the predictions of the theoretical model. The role of the roughcast in the adherence mechanism was found to facilitate the transfer of hydrogen bonds from the mortar to the concrete substrate.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Architecture
Alberto Barontini, Carlo Alarcon, Helder S. Sousa, Daniel V. Oliveira, Maria Giovanna Masciotta, Miguel Azenha
Summary: BIM methodology is being widely used in facility and asset management for new buildings and is now being applied in the maintenance of built heritage. However, challenges such as lack of standardization, insufficient interoperability, and information complexity need to be addressed to make the methodology cost-effective and attractive for end-users.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
(2022)
Article
Architecture
Jesus Balado, Lucia Diaz-Vilarino, Miguel Azenha, Paulo B. Lourenco
Summary: This paper presents a method for automatic modelling and analyzing the inclination, straightness, and surface of chimneys. The method uses point cloud data acquired with a Terrestrial Laser Scanner as input, allowing for accurate estimation of the chimney characteristics.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
(2023)
Review
Construction & Building Technology
Francesca Noardo, Dogus Guler, Judith Fauth, Giada Malacarne, Silvia Mastrolembo Ventura, Miguel Azenha, Per-Ola Olsson, Lennart Senger
Summary: This paper critically analyzes the literature to uncover the latest developments in Digital Building Permitting (DBP). The research shows that the main aspects addressed in the digitalization of building permit process are the technology and regulations. However, there are areas for improvement such as officer involvement, scalability of solutions, and data interoperability.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Architecture
Jelena Zuric, Alessandro Zichi, Miguel Azenha
Summary: This study aims to integrate Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) into the GBC Historic Building Certification, with a focus on the thematic area of 'Historic Value'. By utilizing Building Information Modelling (BIM) to manage a large amount of data, the demand for sustainable heritage renovation can be achieved. The study proposes a BIM workflow and framework based on the GBC requirements to ensure interoperability and data preservation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Aneta Smolana, Barbara Klemczak, Miguel Azenha, Dirk Schlicke
Summary: This paper focuses on the essential aspects of finite element modelling of thermo-mechanical behaviour of massive foundation slabs at early ages. Decision-making issues, casting process consideration, soil size and FE mesh size determination, and temperature changes are discussed. The contribution of shrinkage, reinforcement role, and mechanical model type are investigated. Comparative analyses are conducted to investigate important aspects of the FE model and simplifications with minimal effect on results. Recommendations for creating FE models of massive slabs at early ages are provided.
Article
Engineering, Civil
Mohamad El Sibaii, Jose Granja, Luis Bidarra, Miguel Azenha
Summary: This study proposes a workflow using Building Information Modelling (BIM) to handle geotechnical data, with the development of a Product Data Template (PDT) and visual programming tools. The workflow enables the import and export of data and demonstrates its efficacy through a case study, ensuring proper interoperability in the process.
JOURNAL OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Agnieszka Jedrzejewska, Mariusz Zych, Fragkoulis Kanavaris, Fangjie Chen, Shintaro Ito, Jean Michel Torrenti, Dirk Schlicke, Shingo Asamoto, Miguel Azenha
Summary: Crack control throughout the service life of a structure has always been a challenging task for engineers and asset owners, particularly those who are involved with the design and construction of structures with increased durability requirements. This work reviews the methods for crack width control recommended by different regulatory documents from Europe, USA, Australia and Japan, and provides guidance on the assumptions, possibilities and restrictions of each method.
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Pedro Meda, Diego Calvetti, Hipolito Sousa
Summary: Digitalization and sustainability are two major trends in the construction industry. Mobile devices, equipped with powerful technology like LiDAR, are revolutionizing the industry by enabling new possibilities in tasks such as scan-to-BIM. This paper demonstrates the potential of combining digital waste audits and design processes' improvement to achieve the industry's objectives of digital and green transitions.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Thomas Russo, Renan Rocha Ribeiro, Amir Araghi, Rodrigo de Melo Lameiras, Jose Granja, Miguel Azenha
Summary: The Elastic Modulus Measurement through Ambient Response Method (EMM-ARM) is a method designed to continuously monitor the elastic modulus of hardening construction materials. The traditional method for conducting EMM-ARM experiments involves specialized equipment and licensed software, resulting in high costs and limited customization options. This paper proposes a cost-effective and open-source system using Raspberry Pi and inexpensive electronic components, reducing costs without compromising measurement reliability and creating numerous application possibilities.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ivo Almino Gondim, Hipolito Sousa, Alexandre Bertini
Summary: This study numerically evaluates the thermal properties and energy efficiency improvement provided by new geometries of clay blocks. The results show that the geometric changes can significantly improve thermal resistance and reduce thermal transmittance values. However, the energy reduction for higher temperature conditions is insignificant, while there is potential for energy savings in lower temperatures.
Editorial Material
Management
Pedro Meda Magalhaes, Hipolito Sousa, Diego Calvetti, Eilif Hjelseth
PROCEEDINGS OF THE INSTITUTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERS-MANAGEMENT PROCUREMENT AND LAW
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Rafael Cabral, Rogerio Oliveira, Diogo Ribeiro, Anna M. Rakoczy, Ricardo Santos, Miguel Azenha, Jose Correia
Summary: Documentation of structural visual inspections is important for monitoring, maintenance, and decision-making regarding rehabilitation and strengthening. Close-range photogrammetry based on UAVs and TLS has greatly improved the survey phase, providing a 3D as-is image-based model of the railway bridge. This study used TLS and a CRP-based UAV to capture different sections of the bridge and merged the models to create an accurate 3D representation. A comparison between the as-designed and as-is models revealed slight dimensional deviations.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Diego Calvetti, Luis Sanhudo, Pedro Meda, Joao Pocas Martins, Miguel Chichorro Goncalves, Hipolito Sousa
Summary: The domain of data processing is crucial for accelerating the delivery of information based on electronic performance monitoring (EPM). This research examines the classification of craft workers' activities to improve mechanization and productivity. Experimental simulations of ten common construction activities were conducted using a dynamic laboratory circuit-based simulation. A feasibility case study of EPM using wearable devices compared machine learning and multivariate statistical analysis (MSA) as data processing approaches. The results showed that machine learning achieved higher accuracy rates (92-96%) compared to MSA (47-76%). Additionally, monitoring only the dominant wrist with MSA resulted in an accuracy range of 32-76%. The findings indicated that activities performed with manual tools can be accurately detected with one wearable device, while activities like masonry, walking, and not operating require more motion analysis data points.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Antonio Figueiredo, Filipe Rebelo, Antonio Samagaio, Romeu Vicente, Jorge Lira
Summary: Improving energy efficiency and thermal comfort in buildings is a major goal of the European Union's Renovation Wave initiative. This research focuses on the design of an innovative construction solution using phase change materials (PCMs) to enhance thermal mass and reduce temperature fluctuations. Experimental results show significant reduction in thermal amplitude with the use of the solution containing macroencapsulated PCMs.
Review
Construction & Building Technology
Pedro Meda, Diego Calvetti, Eilif Hjelseth, Hipolito Sousa
Summary: The construction industry faces challenges where transitioning to circular production is key. Digitalisation is crucial for increasing productivity and efficiency, as well as impacting environmental goals. Concepts such as digital data templates and digital building logbooks contribute to better data quality, improving circular industry practices.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Samiran Khorat, Debashish Das, Rupali Khatun, Sk Mohammad Aziz, Prashant Anand, Ansar Khan, Mattheos Santamouris, Dev Niyogi
Summary: Cool roofs can effectively mitigate heatwave-induced excess heat and enhance thermal comfort in urban areas. Implementing cool roofs can significantly improve urban meteorology and thermal comfort, reducing energy flux and heat stress.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Qi Li, Jiayu Chen, Xiaowei Luo
Summary: This study focuses on the vertical wind conditions as a main external factor that limits the energy assessment of high-rise buildings in urban areas. Traditional tools for energy assessment of buildings use a universal vertical wind profile estimation, without taking into account the unique wind speed in each direction induced by the various shapes and configurations of buildings in cities. To address this limitation, the study developed an omnidirectional urban vertical wind speed estimation method using direction-dependent building morphologies and machine learning algorithms.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Xiaojun Luo, Lamine Mahdjoubi
Summary: This paper presents an integrated blockchain and machine learning-based energy management framework for multiple forms of energy allocation and transmission among multiple domestic buildings. Machine learning is used to predict energy generation and consumption patterns, and the proposed framework establishes optimal and automated energy allocation through peer-to-peer energy transactions. The approach contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhances environmental sustainability.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ying Yu, Yuanwei Xiao, Jinshuai Chou, Xingyu Wang, Liu Yang
Summary: This study proposes a dual-layer optimization design method to maximize the energy sharing potential, enhance collaborative benefits, and reduce the storage capacity of building clusters. Case studies show that the proposed design significantly improves the performance of building clusters, reduces energy storage capacity, and shortens the payback period.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Felix Langner, Weimin Wang, Moritz Frahm, Veit Hagenmeyer
Summary: This paper compares two main approaches to consider uncertainties in model predictive control (MPC) for buildings: robust and stochastic MPC. The results show that compared to a deterministic MPC, the robust MPC increases the electricity cost while providing complete temperature constraint satisfaction, while the stochastic MPC slightly increases the electricity cost but fulfills the thermal comfort requirements.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Somil Yadav, Caroline Hachem-Vermette
Summary: This study proposes a mathematical model to evaluate the performance of a Double Skin Facade (DSF) system and its impact on indoor conditions. The model considers various design parameters and analyzes their effects on the system's electrical output and room temperature.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ruijun Chen, Holly Samuelson, Yukai Zou, Xianghan Zheng, Yifan Cao
Summary: This research introduces an innovative resilient design framework that optimizes building performance by considering a holistic life cycle perspective and accounting for climate projection uncertainties. The study finds that future climate scenarios significantly impact building life cycle performance, with wall U-value, windows U-value, and wall density being major factors. By using ensemble learning and optimization algorithms, predictions for carbon emissions, cost, and indoor discomfort hours can be made, and the best resilient design scheme can be selected. Applying this framework leads to significant improvements in building life cycle performance.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
