Dynamic, Clay, Secondary Walling for Heat Reduction, in Tropical Indoors

Abstract

Warming ambient climates in hot -warm climates causes a boost of internal air temperature during the daytime, creating uncomfortable thermal circumstances which affect human physical and mental wellbeing. Modifying indoor thermal discomfort into a comfortable condition is promising with thoughtful material usage, architectural and engineering interventions that involve 'passive mode'. The use of layered facade interventions is such a popular passive cooling approach which is proven successful but leftover a few drawbacks in its practical usage. The research involved developing a clay panel to be applied as a secondary skin, which is thin, lightweight, easily removable, and maintainable, evading the hitches and accelerating indoor heat absorption, further becoming an ultimate eco-friendly low cost, low embedded energy solution. The research methodology involved identifying the material's best mix proportion for optimum air permeability, the simplest practical casting method of the panel, identifying optimum configurations on panel's selfcooling, the best firing temperature, and the firing time, etc. Analysis of the results proves the invention's capability in heat absorption, thus reducing the indoor air temperature. With the uncomplicated technologies in the invention, it provides opportunity even for layman in production. Further, the invention has possibilities in playing a vital role in socio-cultural aspects in the field of construction as well.

Development of Clay-Composite Plasters Integrating Industrial Waste

“…In addition to the great advantage of reduced environmental impact, buildings made from raw-clay-based materials have several benefits in terms of indoor air quality and, implicitly, the health of the population: water vapor permeability, the ability to regulate indoor air humidity, and high storage/heat release capacity, thus contributing to thermal comfort, increasing indoor air quality and energy efficiency. However, the difficulties these materials present are primarily in terms of mechanical strength and resistance to the action of climatic factors being lower compared to concrete buildings, as well as a reduced degree of compatibility with classic finishing materials available on the market [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13]. Consequently, there is a need to develop plaster and finish materials that are compatible with the primary materials used for traditional construction (natural stone, burnt ceramic brick, and masonry elements based on raw clay, wood, and wood-based or other lignocellulosic materials).…”

“…The inherent thermal properties of clay building elements and finishes contribute to their capacity to effectively regulate indoor temperature. This is particularly beneficial when faced with significant daily temperature fluctuations, as highlighted by [6]. Their substantial thermal mass facilitates the absorption and storage of heat throughout daylight hours, subsequently releasing it during cooler periods.…”