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21 pages, 727 KiB  
Article
Cost-Effective Energy Retrofit Pathways for Buildings: A Case Study in Greece
by Charikleia Karakosta and Isaak Vryzidis
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4014; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154014 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 145
Abstract
Urban areas are responsible for most of Europe’s energy demand and emissions and urgently require building retrofits to meet climate neutrality goals. This study evaluates the energy efficiency potential of three public school buildings in western Macedonia, Greece—a cold-climate region with high heating [...] Read more.
Urban areas are responsible for most of Europe’s energy demand and emissions and urgently require building retrofits to meet climate neutrality goals. This study evaluates the energy efficiency potential of three public school buildings in western Macedonia, Greece—a cold-climate region with high heating needs. The buildings, constructed between 1986 and 2003, exhibited poor insulation, outdated electromechanical systems, and inefficient lighting, resulting in high oil consumption and low energy ratings. A robust methodology is applied, combining detailed on-site energy audits, thermophysical diagnostics based on U-value calculations, and a techno-economic assessment utilizing Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and SWOT analysis. The study evaluates a series of retrofit measures, including ceiling insulation, high-efficiency lighting replacements, and boiler modernization, against both technical performance criteria and financial viability. Results indicate that ceiling insulation and lighting system upgrades yield positive economic returns, while wall and floor insulation measures remain financially unattractive without external subsidies. The findings are further validated through sensitivity analysis and policy scenario modeling, revealing how targeted investments, especially when supported by public funding schemes, can maximize energy savings and emissions reductions. The study concludes that selective implementation of cost-effective measures, supported by public grants, can achieve energy targets, improve indoor environments, and serve as a replicable model of targeted retrofits across the region, though reliance on external funding and high upfront costs pose challenges. Full article
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19 pages, 3709 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Physical and Thermal Characteristics of Gypsum Panels with Hemp Hurds for Building Insulation
by Chatpon Chaimongkol, Sukunya Ross, Dachaphon Kealkaew and Atthakorn Thongtha
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6801; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156801 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 368
Abstract
The study investigates the potential of enhancing gypsum board properties through the integration of hemp hurds and glass fibers. The investigation focuses on evaluating the composite material’s density, water absorption, flexural strength, compressive strength, and thermal performance. Experimental results demonstrate a reduction in [...] Read more.
The study investigates the potential of enhancing gypsum board properties through the integration of hemp hurds and glass fibers. The investigation focuses on evaluating the composite material’s density, water absorption, flexural strength, compressive strength, and thermal performance. Experimental results demonstrate a reduction in gypsum composite density and improved thermal insulating properties with the introduction of hemp hurds. Water absorption, a significant drawback of gypsum boards, is mitigated with hemp hurds, indicating potential benefits for insulation efficiency. For mechanical tests, the gypsum ceiling board at approximately 5% by weight exhibits a flexural strength value exceeding the minimum average threshold of 1 MPa and the highest average compressive strength at 2.94 MPa. Thermal testing reveals lower temperatures and longer time lags in gypsum boards with 5% hemp hurds, suggesting enhanced heat resistance and reduced energy consumption for cooling. The study contributes valuable insights into the potential use of hemp hurds in gypsum-based building materials, presenting a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative for the construction industry. Full article
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18 pages, 1565 KiB  
Article
The Expression of Social Behaviors in Broiler Chickens Grown in Either Conventional or Environmentally Modified Houses During the Summer Season
by Chloe M. O’Brien and Frank W. Edens
Poultry 2025, 4(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/poultry4030032 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 278
Abstract
Environmentally modified housing [EMH; windowless, insulated sidewalls and ceiling, thermostatically controlled ventilation fans) versus conventional housing [CVH; cross-ventilated, insulated ceiling, ceiling fans) improved broiler performance in the summer. The objective of this investigation was to determine whether social behaviors differed between two population [...] Read more.
Environmentally modified housing [EMH; windowless, insulated sidewalls and ceiling, thermostatically controlled ventilation fans) versus conventional housing [CVH; cross-ventilated, insulated ceiling, ceiling fans) improved broiler performance in the summer. The objective of this investigation was to determine whether social behaviors differed between two population densities (0.06 m2/chick [HD] or 0.07 m2/chick [LD]) in these houses. We used a randomized block statistical design, involving houses, population densities, observation times, and bird age. Behaviors were observed weekly, during the morning and the afternoon. Individual observers focused on the group of broilers in one of three defined 26.76 m2 areas in each of the four pens in each house. Aggressive encounters, tail and back pecking, feather eating, thermoregulatory, preening, and flock mobility were recorded. Feather pecking, eating and aggressive encounters were expressed at greater rates in HD birds in CVH. A salt-deficient diet caused increased feather pecking and aggressive encounters, which decreased after correction of the mistake. Increased heat indices (HIs), HD, and greater light intensity in CVH influenced behaviors and mortality more severely than in EMH. In CVH and EMH, burrowing/thermoregulatory/resting activity increased with increasing HIs. Afternoon preening was elevated significantly in EMH. It was concluded that broilers reared in EMH were more comfortable and experienced improved welfare compared to those reared in CVH. Full article
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34 pages, 3386 KiB  
Article
A Simulation-Based Study of Classroom IAQ and Thermal Comfort Performance Across New Zealand’s Six Climate Zones: The Avalon Typology
by Vineet Kumar Arya, Eziaku Onyeizu Rasheed and Don Amila Sajeevan Samarasinghe
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 1992; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15121992 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 489
Abstract
Indoor environmental quality profoundly impacts student learning outcomes and teacher effectiveness, particularly in primary education, where children spend most of their developmental years. The study compares the New Zealand Ministry of Education’s Designing Quality Learning Spaces (DQLS) version 2.0 for primary school classrooms [...] Read more.
Indoor environmental quality profoundly impacts student learning outcomes and teacher effectiveness, particularly in primary education, where children spend most of their developmental years. The study compares the New Zealand Ministry of Education’s Designing Quality Learning Spaces (DQLS) version 2.0 for primary school classrooms with international standards set by OECD countries to develop IAQ and thermal comfort best practices in New Zealand across six climate zones. The research evaluates indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort factors affecting students’ and teachers’ health and performance. Using Ladybug and Honeybee plugin tools in Grasshopper with Energy Plus, integrated into Rhino 7 software, the study employed advanced building optimisation methods, using multi-criteria optimisation and parametric modelling. This approach enabled a comprehensive analysis of building envelope parameters for historical classroom designs, the Avalon block (constructed between 1955 and 2000). Optimise window-to-wall ratios, ceiling heights, window placement, insulation values (R-values), clothing insulation (Clo), and window opening schedules. Our findings demonstrate that strategic modifications to the building envelope can significantly improve occupant comfort and energy performance. Specifically, increasing ceiling height by 0.8 m, raising windows by 0.3 m vertically, and reducing the window-to-wall ratio to 25% created optimal conditions across multiple performance criteria. These targeted adjustments improved adaptive thermal comfort, ventilation, carbon dioxide, and energy efficiency while maintaining local and international standards. The implications of the findings extend beyond the studied classrooms, offering evidence-based strategies for overall design and building performance guidelines in educational facilities. This research demonstrates the efficacy of applying computational design optimisation during early design phases, providing policymakers and architects with practical solutions that could inform future revisions of New Zealand’s school design standards and align them more closely with international best practices for educational environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Green Building Systems)
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31 pages, 3470 KiB  
Article
Reducing Cooling Energy Demand in Saudi Arabian Residential Buildings Using Passive Design Approaches
by Lucelia Rodrigues, Benjamin Abraham Cherian and Serik Tokbolat
Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1895; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111895 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 973
Abstract
In Saudi Arabia’s hot and arid climate, residential buildings account for over half of national electricity consumption, with cooling demands alone responsible for more than 70% of this use. This paper explores the hypothesis that contemporary villa designs are inherently inefficient and that [...] Read more.
In Saudi Arabia’s hot and arid climate, residential buildings account for over half of national electricity consumption, with cooling demands alone responsible for more than 70% of this use. This paper explores the hypothesis that contemporary villa designs are inherently inefficient and that current building regulations fall short of enabling adequate thermal performance. This issue is expected to become increasingly significant in the near future as external temperatures continue to rise. The study aims to assess whether passive design strategies rooted in both engineering and architectural principles can offer substantial reductions in cooling energy demand under current and future climatic conditions. A typical detached villa was simulated using IES-VE to test a range of passive measures, including optimized window-to-wall ratios, enhanced glazing configurations, varied envelope constructions, solar shading devices, and wind-tower-based natural ventilation. Parametric simulations were conducted under current climate data and extended to future weather scenarios. Unlike many prior studies, this work integrates these strategies holistically and evaluates their combined impact, rather than in isolation while assessing the impact of future weather in the region. The findings revealed that individual measures such as insulated ceilings and reduced window-to-wall ratios significantly lowered cooling loads. When applied in combination, these strategies achieved a 68% reduction in cooling energy use compared to the base-case villa. While full passive performance year-round remains unfeasible in such extreme conditions, the study demonstrates a clear pathway toward energy-efficient housing in the Gulf region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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25 pages, 10258 KiB  
Article
Full-Scale Experimental Investigation of Temperature Distribution and Smoke Flow in a Road Tunnel with a Novel Water Mist Fire Fighting System
by Shouzhong Feng, Deyuan Kan and Chao Guo
Fire 2025, 8(6), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8060216 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 617
Abstract
This study presents a novel water mist fire fighting system that integrates water mist sprays and water mist curtains, designed to achieve simultaneous fire suppression, thermal insulation, and smoke control. Three full-scale experiments were conducted under various fire scenarios, and the changes in [...] Read more.
This study presents a novel water mist fire fighting system that integrates water mist sprays and water mist curtains, designed to achieve simultaneous fire suppression, thermal insulation, and smoke control. Three full-scale experiments were conducted under various fire scenarios, and the changes in fire behavior and heat release rate were examined to evaluate the effectiveness of the water mist system in extinguishing fires. Additionally, the spatiotemporal changes in ceiling temperature were monitored to assess the cooling and protective effects of the water mist. The thermal insulation capability of the system was also investigated by detecting the temperature distribution inside the tunnel. Moreover, the smoke conditions upstream and downstream of the tunnel were analyzed to evaluate the smoke-blocking performance of the water mist system. The findings demonstrate that the water mist fire fighting system is highly efficient in attenuating the fire and restricting its progression. Within the water mist spray section, the average ceiling temperature decreased exponentially during both the initial and steady burning phases across all tested fire scenarios. Nonetheless, the smoke-carrying capacity of the water mist spray is limited. Fortunately, the dispersed smoke was diluted by water mist, markedly enhancing visibility and mitigating the impact of smoke on tunnel illumination. Full article
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34 pages, 33421 KiB  
Article
Experimental Investigation of Wall Confluent Jets on Transparent Large-Space Building Envelopes: Part 1—Application in Heating Greenhouses
by Gasper Choonya, Alan Kabanshi and Bahram Moshfegh
Energies 2024, 17(24), 6217; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17246217 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 759
Abstract
Insulating building envelopes is crucial for maintaining indoor thermal comfort, particularly in large-space enclosures like greenhouses having transparent envelopes. Transparent envelopes allow natural light but challenge temperature regulation due to their low thermal mass and high U-values, which enable significant heat transfer between [...] Read more.
Insulating building envelopes is crucial for maintaining indoor thermal comfort, particularly in large-space enclosures like greenhouses having transparent envelopes. Transparent envelopes allow natural light but challenge temperature regulation due to their low thermal mass and high U-values, which enable significant heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments. This field study aims to experimentally investigate whether warm wall confluent jets (WCJs) can maintain the required indoor climate conditions in a greenhouse exposed to dynamic meteorological conditions in winter. It analyzed the impact of the airflow rate, number of nozzle rows, and room air temperature setpoint on WCJ heating performance on the ceiling, external wall, and room air. Measurements were performed with thermocouples and constant current anemometers, and the response surface methodology evaluated the effect of design variables on WCJ flow, thermal behavior, and the indoor environment. The results show that WCJs provided recommended air velocities and temperatures indoors, with the airflow rate having the strongest effect on flow and thermal behavior, while the number of nozzle rows had a moderate effect. This study developed response surface models related to room air temperature, ceiling surface temperature, external wall temperature, and supply air temperature. Supply temperatures between 27 °C and 40 °C suggest using low-exergy heat sources, like industrial waste heat, to sustain greenhouse operations during winter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section G: Energy and Buildings)
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18 pages, 26341 KiB  
Article
The Historical Building and Room Acoustics of the Stockholm Public Library (1925–28, 1931–32)
by Patrick H. Fleming
Acoustics 2024, 6(3), 754-771; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics6030041 - 19 Aug 2024
Viewed by 2536
Abstract
The Stockholm Public Library was realized in two distinct phases of construction in the 1920s and early 1930s, and remains a well-known work in twentieth-century architecture, with a heritage status today. While previous studies have focused on the library’s architectural design, particularly its [...] Read more.
The Stockholm Public Library was realized in two distinct phases of construction in the 1920s and early 1930s, and remains a well-known work in twentieth-century architecture, with a heritage status today. While previous studies have focused on the library’s architectural design, particularly its lighting, acoustics were also an important aspect of the building’s design and construction. This study marks the first detailed investigation of the library’s architectural acoustics, with a suite of standard measurements performed to assess and characterize the library’s historical room and building acoustics. Reverberation time measurements in the library’s reading rooms yielded results of about 1.5–2 s for frequencies associated with speech. A significantly longer reverberation time of 5–6 s was measured in the library’s central rotunda, confirming a prominent acoustic issue in the library, where appropriate heritage discussions are needed in the future as the library undergoes a major renovation in the coming years. A comparison of the measured airborne and impact sound insulation of the 1920s and 1930s reading room ceilings also yielded interesting results. While the materials in library’s two construction periods are notably different, the airborne sound insulation performance of the 1920s and 1930s floors or ceilings was comparable and in line with contemporary standards. Impact sound insulation results from the 1920s and 1930s floors, however, differed significantly, with the latter displaying a relatively poor performance. Flanking transmission effects related to historical construction details and deviations from archival plans were investigated and discussed. This work emphasizes the practical and academic importance of conducting on-site measurements, and the close mutual development of modern architecture, construction, and architectural acoustics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Historical Acoustics)
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18 pages, 5162 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study on the Influence of High-Pressure Water Mist on the Ceiling Temperature of a Longitudinally Ventilated Tunnel
by Hui Zhu, Weining Du and Wenfeng Li
Fire 2024, 7(8), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire7080262 - 23 Jul 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1360
Abstract
In this study, a tunnel model with a length of 20 m, a width of 5 m, and a height of 5 m was used, and an experimental investigation was conducted to examine the impact of high-pressure water mist on the temperature distribution [...] Read more.
In this study, a tunnel model with a length of 20 m, a width of 5 m, and a height of 5 m was used, and an experimental investigation was conducted to examine the impact of high-pressure water mist on the temperature distribution along the tunnel ceiling. Specifically, different experimental settings, such as various nozzle pressures, nozzle positions, and longitudinal ventilation speeds, in the high-pressure water mist system were employed to investigate the smoke-spreading process of tunnel fire under different conditions, and an effective method utilizing a high-pressure water mist system was proposed for blocking smoke and heat. The experimental results reveal that the high-pressure water mist system can be used to effectively improve the ceiling temperature during tunnel fires; when the nozzle pressure is set as 10 MPa, and the nozzle position is located at x7, the highest thermal insulation efficiency in the tunnel is obtained. Additionally, the joint application of the high-pressure water mist system and the mechanical smoke exhaust effectively mitigates the ambient temperature within the tunnel, thereby playing a pivotal role in enhancing the fire safety of the tunnel. Full article
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42 pages, 8637 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances and Developments in Phase Change Materials in High-Temperature Building Envelopes: A Review of Solutions and Challenges
by Farhan Lafta Rashid, Anmar Dulaimi, Wadhah Amer Hatem, Mudhar A. Al-Obaidi, Arman Ameen, Muhammad Asmail Eleiwi, Sarah Abbas Jawad, Luís Filipe Almeida Bernardo and Jong Wan Hu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1582; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061582 - 30 May 2024
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6052
Abstract
The use of phase change materials (PCMs) has become an increasingly common way to reduce a building’s energy usage when added to the building envelope. This developing technology has demonstrated improvements in thermal comfort and energy efficiency, making it a viable building energy [...] Read more.
The use of phase change materials (PCMs) has become an increasingly common way to reduce a building’s energy usage when added to the building envelope. This developing technology has demonstrated improvements in thermal comfort and energy efficiency, making it a viable building energy solution. The current study intends to provide a comprehensive review of the published studies on the utilization of PCMs in various constructions of energy-efficient roofs, walls, and ceilings. The research question holds massive potential to unlock pioneering solutions for maximizing the usefulness of PCMs in reducing cooling demands, especially in challenging high-temperature environments. Several issues with PCMs have been revealed, the most significant of which is their reduced effectiveness during the day due to high summer temperatures, preventing them from crystallizing at night. However, this review investigates how PCMs can delay the peak temperature time, reducing the number of hours during which the indoor temperature exceeds the thermal comfort range. Additionally, the utilization of PCMs can improve the building’s energy efficiency by mitigating the need for cooling systems during peak hours. Thus, selecting the right PCM for high temperatures is both critical and challenging. Insulation density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity all play a role in heat transfer under extreme conditions. This study introduces several quantification techniques and paves the way for future advancements to accommodate practical and technical solutions related to PCM usage in building materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in Buildings)
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32 pages, 12905 KiB  
Article
Cost Benefits of Net Zero Energy Homes in Australia
by Moncef Krarti and Ali Karrech
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041107 - 15 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2544
Abstract
This paper presents a systematic analysis of energy savings and cost benefits associated with several options for integrating energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The primary goal of this study is to assess the cost-effectiveness of achieving optimal net-zero energy (NZE) designs for [...] Read more.
This paper presents a systematic analysis of energy savings and cost benefits associated with several options for integrating energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The primary goal of this study is to assess the cost-effectiveness of achieving optimal net-zero energy (NZE) designs for residential buildings in Australia. Specifically, the analysis combines a series of sensitivity analyses and multi-objective optimizations to account for a wide range of design strategies for detached homes in four cities representing different Australian climates. The results indicate that not only are NZE designs technically feasible for all the considered Australian cities, but they are also highly cost-effective. This cost-effectiveness is attributed to the lower installation costs of rooftop PV systems as well as the beneficial interactive effects of proven energy efficiency strategies. Indeed, it is found that the deployment costs of rooftop PV systems can be recovered in less than 4 years. Moreover, the addition of thermal insulation in walls and ceilings can reduce both HVAC capacities and annual energy end-use by up to 59%. Based on an optimization-based design, NZE homes in Australia can have lower construction costs and, ultimately, lower life cycle costs than dwellings built to meet current energy efficiency standards based primarily on stringent building envelope thermal performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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17 pages, 8929 KiB  
Article
Effect of Applied Pressure on the Performance of Biodegradable Fiber Insulation Board Manufactured from Camphor Branches (Cinnamomum camphora)
by Ziyi Cai, Xiaowen Song, Xiulun Wang, Tongxin Guo, Hiroshi Takahashi and Changqing Cai
Forests 2024, 15(1), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15010156 - 11 Jan 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1868
Abstract
Currently, the predominant thermal insulation materials in the construction industry are primarily derived from inorganic sources. While these materials demonstrate commendable thermal insulation capabilities, their widespread use raises significant environmental concerns. The utilization of wood fiber materials presents a promising solution to mitigate [...] Read more.
Currently, the predominant thermal insulation materials in the construction industry are primarily derived from inorganic sources. While these materials demonstrate commendable thermal insulation capabilities, their widespread use raises significant environmental concerns. The utilization of wood fiber materials presents a promising solution to mitigate these drawbacks. This study focuses on the fabrication of biodegradable fiber insulation board (BFIB) using camphor branches. The manufacturing process avoids the use of chemical additives, employing a physical method that utilizes hot pressing and relies on the formation of intermolecular hydrogen and hydroxide bonds between the fibers. The study evaluates the influence of applied pressure on the properties of BFIB. SEM images reveal that, with an increase in applied pressure, the fibers exhibit a more regular pattern, subsequently enhancing the mechanical properties, hygric behavior, and fire resistance properties of BFIB. As an environmentally friendly and renewable material, BFIB holds the potential to substitute conventional insulation materials. It is particularly intriguing for energy-saving purposes when applied as building insulation for walls or ceilings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wood Science and Forest Products)
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16 pages, 11900 KiB  
Article
Geopolymer Made from Kaolin, Diatomite, and Rice Husk Ash for Ceiling Thermal Insulation
by Cinthya Alvarado, Daniel Martínez-Cerna and Hernán Alvarado-Quintana
Buildings 2024, 14(1), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14010112 - 31 Dec 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2607
Abstract
In this study, geopolymers made of metakaolin (MK), diatomite (D), and rice husk ash (RHA) were developed for ceiling thermal insulation in houses to provide protection against cold temperatures. The influence of the constituent mixing ratio and the temperature of curing on the [...] Read more.
In this study, geopolymers made of metakaolin (MK), diatomite (D), and rice husk ash (RHA) were developed for ceiling thermal insulation in houses to provide protection against cold temperatures. The influence of the constituent mixing ratio and the temperature of curing on the heat conductivity and compressive strength of the geopolymer was investigated. Specimens were formed according to a 10-level mix design with three replicates and subjected to curing at 40 °C and 80 °C. Heat conductivity and compressive strength were determined in accordance with established standards. The simplex lattice method was used to obtain the response surfaces, contour plots, and tracking curves. The geopolymers under study displayed a reduction in heat conductivity and an increase in compressive strength when the curing temperature was raised. The optimal mixing ratio to achieve a balance between the compressive strength and thermal conductivity of the geopolymers investigated was 0.50 MK and 0.50 RHA. Diatomite’s thermal insulation contribution is neutralized when crystals from the geopolymer gel fill the pore volume. The mixture’s optimal results were achieved when cured at 80 °C, demonstrating a thermal conductivity of 0.10 W/m·K and a compressive strength of 5.37 MPa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Building Materials)
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14 pages, 11747 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Characterization of a Novel Lightweight Bio-Degradable Lignocellulosic Porous Molding Material
by Yongshun Feng, Xin Pan, Hui Qiao and Xiaowei Zhuang
Buildings 2024, 14(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14010049 - 23 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1216
Abstract
Wood is an abundant biomaterial and widely used in construction and furniture. Timber processing produces large amounts of residues and byproducts, which are of low value. In this study, we proposed a new strategy for the recycle of wood residues to prepare a [...] Read more.
Wood is an abundant biomaterial and widely used in construction and furniture. Timber processing produces large amounts of residues and byproducts, which are of low value. In this study, we proposed a new strategy for the recycle of wood residues to prepare a wood porous molding material. A hydrated thermochemical grinding process followed by high-temperature and high-pressure refining was developed to convert wood powder into high-viscosity suspension. Lignocellulosic raw materials, including pine wood, beech wood, and bamboo, were compared with different grinding time. A porous material without the addition of synthetic adhesive was obtained with a density in the range of 0.28–0.67 g/cm3. The porous molding material was characterized based on fiber morphology, volume, and porosity and mechanical performance. Pores of different sizes were distributed in the samples randomly after curing and drying. The wood’s own bindings were released through the hydrated thermochemical grinding process. The porous sample made from bamboo with a grinding time of 6 h showed a high Young’s modulus (681.1 MPa), compactness (166.8 N/Sec), and hardness (517.6 N). Woody materials were more readily made into moldings since most of the cellulose crystal structure remained intact. The wood porous moldings are fully composed of lignocellulosic components and easy to recycle. This porous green material has great potential to be applied to insulation, ceiling, cabinet, and packaging. Full article
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12 pages, 3002 KiB  
Technical Note
Thermal Conditions of Laying Quail Sheds in Brazil
by Evandro Menezes de Oliveira, Sheila Tavares Nascimento, João Victor do Nascimento Mós, Lenilson da Fonseca Roza, Juliana Beatriz Toledo and Tatiana Carlesso dos Santos
AgriEngineering 2023, 5(4), 2314-2325; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering5040142 - 6 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1769
Abstract
This study was conducted to survey the level of technification of quail sheds in Brazil. Data from 25 quail farms (5 in each Brazilian region) were collected by image analysis of videos available on the Internet. The analyzed variables were farm location, degree [...] Read more.
This study was conducted to survey the level of technification of quail sheds in Brazil. Data from 25 quail farms (5 in each Brazilian region) were collected by image analysis of videos available on the Internet. The analyzed variables were farm location, degree of technological adoption in quail sheds, housing conditions, structural conditions, wall conditions, and thermal comfort equipment. The data were subjected to descriptive analysis, and differences were assessed using the chi-squared test (p < 0.10). It was found that curtain walls were the most used system for air entry and renewal in quail sheds. Fan systems were present in only 12% of sheds, and evaporative cooling systems (or air conditioning) were observed in 4% of sheds, exclusively on large farms. Internal insulation was used in 20.83% of farms. In conclusion, Brazilian quail sheds have a low degree of technification; about 90% do not use implements such as ceiling, ventilation, and cooling systems. These conditions make it difficult to control environmental variables within quail sheds, impairing thermal comfort and, consequently, animal welfare and quail productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Livestock Farming Technology)
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