The Challenge of Integrating Seismic and Energy Retrofitting of Buildings: An Opportunity for Sustainable Materials?

Abstract

Recent earthquakes and escalating energy demands are exposing building stock deficiencies, particularly in terms of seismic resilience and energy efficiency. Many aged constructions do not fulfil current regulations both in terms of seismic and thermal design principles, thus requiring suitable retrofitting solutions. Integrated approaches for concurrent seismic and energy renovation have emerged as promising strategies in recent years, offering holistic solutions that optimize interventions and maximize benefits. While these combined methods hold significant potential for practical applications, there remain opportunities for further research to enhance their advantages. Furthermore, addressing climate concerns requires concentrated effort within the construction sector, where synergetic refurbishments can serve a dual purpose by reducing emissions and promoting the use of more sustainable materials. This study discusses strategies proposed in the literature for integrated retrofitting, considering their environmental impact, both in terms of energy performance and embodied carbon. The overview shows the innovation potential for the development of materials and systems combining acceptable performance with eco-friendly attributes. Yet, their application in integrated retrofitting systems, either as structural components or insulators, is still limited, underscoring the need for continued investigation and advancement. This paper concludes with recommendations to inspire further research and advancements in this critical field.

The Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings for Energy Renovation—A Case Study for the Residential Building Stock in Bucharest (Romania)

“…Various solutions that ensure both seismic strengthening and thermal rehabilitation have been given by various researchers in the literature (e.g., [3,[45][46][47][48][49]). The recent study by Penazzato et al [50] consists of a valuable literature review on this topic focusing on materials and solutions for integrated seismic and energy rehabilitation. A proper adaptation of such solutions considering the structural typologies commonly encountered in Romania should be sought as soon as possible in order to decrease the seismic risk of residential buildings in Bucharest.…”