Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9899
Title: Improved thermal performance of Maltese HCB : the C-block
Authors: Micallef, Luke (2014)
Keywords: Buildings -- Energy conservation -- Malta
Buildings -- Energy consumption -- Malta
Sustainable buildings -- Design and construction
Issue Date: 2014
Abstract: Buildings in Malta are responsible for 30% of the total energy produced by the power stations through the burning of fossil fuels and generating greenhouse gases. To reduce buildings' energy consumption, the European Union has issued the 2nd edition of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) as the recast, where all buildings should be nearly zero energy by 31st December 2020. Precast Hollow Concrete Blocks (HCBs) are today, the most utilized building blocks used in the local building industry replacing Maltese globigerina limestone. Unfortunately, 230mm HCB have poor thermal resistance with high Uvalues around 2.2 W/m2K. This has prompted research in alternative building materials that can greatly lower the U-value of Maltese HCB. A new 200mm HCB was designed, named as the C-block attained a U-value of 0.6W/m2K, far out-performing the legal requirement of 1.57W/m2K. This is due to the configuration of the insulating material that ensures no thermal bridging between the internal and external skins. It also serves as a noise attenuator between party walls. Moreover, it has a space saving of 30mm all around any immediate indoor space without compromising its load bearing capability of 7N/mm2 as requested by local legislation. Ultimately the C-block would not only contribute in reducing the required HVAC system size but also in reducing the annual energy running cost in buildings. Moreover, it helps in extending the periods of thermal comfort without reliance on HVACs during inter-seasonal periods. The C-block will also bring additional benefits in energy savings, higher Building Energy Rating (BER) resulting in lower energy bills and protect the environment by cutting power station emissions.
Description: M.SC.SUS.ENERGY
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar//handle/123456789/9899
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - InsSE - 2014

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