Work

Thermal insulation panels fabricated using recycled cardboard for energy efficiency in buildings: retrofit performance evaluation in hot climate

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The study examines the potential of using passive design strategies from locally sourced, environmentally friendly materials to improve building energy efficiency in hot climates. Thermal insulation panels fabricated using recycled cardboard aggregates and biodegradable binders (cornstarch, lime and clay) were assessed for their impact on energy consumption by retrofitting an existing building in Dubai. Weather data and building energy consumption were monitored onsite. Three insulation panels composites of varying thickness were incorporated into base model of existing building and assessed for their energy consumption across various months, seasons and on representative dates using OpenStudio integrated with EnergyPlus. The energy consumption of existing building was validated against recorded data. The 100 mm thick cardboard-cornstarch panel was found to be most effective reducing HVAC energy consumption by 19.71% during peak summer season and 10.3% annually. An economic analysis calculated the material cost, energy cost and payback period associated with the fabricated panels.

Source: International Journal of Sustainable Energy

DOI: 10.1080/14786451.2024.2432280

Authors: Jemi Merrin Mathews, Vivek B, Meghana Charde

Institution: Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani - Dubai Campus

Language: English

Topic: Building Energy and Comfort Optimization

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani