Architecture Engineers Award

Bio-based construction materials are increasingly promoted as sustainable alternatives capable of reducing the environmental footprint of buildings while enhancing energy efficiency. However, many comparative studies assess these materials against conventional wall systems of equal thickness, often neglecting the influence of thermal mass and climate-specific behavior at the whole-building scale. Due to their lightweight structure and limited thermal mass, bio-based systems may struggle to balance heating and cooling demands across different climates. This study evaluates the energy performance of hemp concrete, wood concrete, and straw-based wall systems, emphasizing the interaction between insulation, thermal inertia, and climate conditions. Methodological Framework and Co-Simulation Strategy A validated co-simulation methodology integrating TRNSYS and MATLAB was employed to assess whole-building energy performance. Two analytical scenarios were developed to isolate and evaluate key...

Improving building envelope performance is a critical strategy for reducing heating energy demand and enhancing indoor thermal comfort in cold climates. This study evaluates the thermal effectiveness of four advanced insulation materials—phase change materials (PCM), aerogel, vacuum insulated panels (VIP), and autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC)—through dynamic energy simulations. Using 24 years of hourly climate data, five wall configurations were analyzed, including an uninsulated reference case. The research focuses on annual heating demand, surface temperature stability, thermal time lag, and comfort hours to determine how different material properties contribute to energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Methodological Framework and Simulation Approach The investigation employed dynamic building energy modeling using EnergyPlus, incorporating long-term hourly climate data to ensure robust performance assessment. PCM behavior was simulated through an enthalpy–temperature phase ch...