Simulation models of lightweight social housing in arid continental climate

Thermo-energetic validation and optimisation of the envelope through the inclusion of thermal mass

Abstract

The study highlights the need to assess the energy efficiency of lightweight construction systems in continental arid climates, with a focus on ensuring indoor thermal comfort. The main objective is to validate dynamic simulation models of dwellings and to simulate potential improvements through the optimisation of the building envelope by incorporating materials with thermal inertia in varying proportions. Six social housing units built by the Provincial Housing Institute (IPV) of Mendoza were selected as case studies. These were developed using three of the most commonly employed industrialised lightweight systems in the province. The methodology involves monitoring the indoor thermal performance of the dwellings and validating dynamic models using EnergyPlus software. The optimisation of the vertical envelope is carried out by integrating different proportions of materials with thermal mass and insulation. Additionally, the outcomes are compared with a simulation model in which the entire envelope is composed of massive walls using traditional materials commonly employed in Mendoza (solid brick). The results indicate a more efficient thermal performance in scenarios where the envelope has greater mass. The findings underscore the relevance of incorporating materials with both thermal inertia and insulation capacity in building enclosures. In order to improve the energy efficiency of newly constructed housing in Mendoza, a thermal mass share of approximately 50% in the envelope is recommended as appropriate for buildings in continental arid climates.