Selected Topics in Architecture Design PDF

Selected Topics in Architecture Design 0404482 Chapter One Spring 2024 - 2025 Lecture Notes Architecture? Architecture is both an art a...

Selected Topics in Architecture Design 0404482 Chapter One Spring 2024 - 2025 Lecture Notes Architecture? Architecture is both an art and a science focused on designing and constructing spaces that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and responsive to the needs of individuals and communities. In essence, architecture is about creating environments that enhance human life while addressing challenges of form, function, and the General environment. Introduction Architecture bridges technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving to create environments that improve the quality of life. Vitruvius (Roman Architect): Architecture must embody "firmitas" (strength), "utilitas" (utility), and "venustas" (beauty). Frank Lloyd Wright: "Architecture is life; it is the mother art, rising out of human needs and desires.“ Louis Kahn: "The architect is the intermediary between the inspiration of society and the reality of construction.“  Architect? Architects are creators, problem-solvers, and visionaries who create spaces (built environment) to improve human life. An architect, at their core, is both a creator and a problem-solver, balancing General the intangible aspects of beauty and emotion with the tangible needs of function and practicality. Introduction Developing creative solutions for spatial needs Addressing challenges related to site conditions, environmental constraints, budget, and regulations. Architects often push the boundaries of what’s possible, blending art, science, and technology to create iconic or sustainable structures. Solving spatial and environmental challenges. Designing for people’s comfort, safety, and well-being. Key Roles of the Architect 1. Creator of Functional and Aesthetic Spaces 3. Interpreter of Human Needs Primary Goal: Combine functionality with beauty to Primary Goal: Translate the needs and desires of clients create spaces and environments that serve a purpose and and users into spatial forms. inspire. Key Responsibilities: Key Responsibilities: Understand the client’s vision, lifestyle, and Design spaces that are efficient, safe, and easy to aspirations. use. Conduct user research to ensure the design meets Incorporate artistic vision and creativity to make the social and functional needs of occupants. the spaces visually appealing. 4. Guardian of Public Safety and Well-Being 2. Problem Solver Primary Goal: Design buildings that are structurally Primary Goal: Address and solve design challenges in sound, safe, and in compliance with laws and codes. response to the context and constraints. Key Responsibilities: Key Responsibilities: Ensure buildings meet fire, seismic, and Work within budgetary, environmental, and accessibility codes. material constraints. Use appropriate materials and engineering Solve spatial challenges, such as fitting complex techniques to ensure safety. functions into small spaces. Innovate solutions for issues like energy efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability.  5. Coordinator of the Built Environment Primary Goal: Balance the relationship between buildings, their surroundings, and the environment. Key Responsibilities: Integrate designs with the urban fabric and surrounding landscape. Design in harmony with the natural environment, respecting ecological systems. 6. Visionary for the Future Primary Goal: Anticipate future trends and design spaces that remain relevant and adaptable. Key Responsibilities: Design flexible spaces that can evolve with user needs. Consider future technologies and societal shifts. Comfort as a Reflection of Building Performance Mandates 1. Thermal Comfort Comfort as a Reflection of Building Performance Definition: The condition of mind that expresses satisfaction with the thermal Mandates refers to the alignment of a building's environment (as defined by ASHRAE Standard 55). design and operational goals with the need to Mandates and Metrics: provide occupants with physical, emotional, 1. Air temperature 2. Mean radiant temperature (MRT) 3. Relative humidity 4. Air speed and psychological well-being. It highlights the 5. Clothes 6.Activity relationship between building performance and Why It Matters? occupant satisfaction. Productivity: Comfortable thermal conditions directly enhance focus, efficiency, and performance in workplaces, schools, and other activity-based environments. Energy Efficiency: Proper design and management of thermal comfort reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and minimize environmental impact. 2. Acoustic Comfort 3. Visual Comfort Definition: The ability to carry out tasks without Visual comfort refers to the state where lighting conditions enable occupants unwanted noise or distractions, ensuring speech to perform tasks efficiently, avoid discomfort (such as glare or eyestrain), and intelligibility and sound isolation. feel psychologically at ease in their environment. It is a balance of light Mandates and Metrics: quantity, quality, and the relationship with the surrounding environment. Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) Mandates and Metrics: Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC). 1. Illuminance Levels (lux) 4. Uniformity Ratio Reverberation Time (RT). 2. Glare Index (GI) 5. Color Rendering Index (CRI) Why It Matters? 3. Daylight Factor (DF) 6.Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) Poor acoustics can affect productivity, communication, Why It Matters? and overall satisfaction with a space. Visual comfort enhances productivity and reduces fatigue while ensuring Excessive noise disrupts focus, productivity, and sleep. energy-efficient use of natural and artificial lighting. Access to natural light and external views reduces stress, boosts mood, and improves occupant satisfaction. Optimizing daylight and task lighting reduces dependency on artificial lighting, saving energy. 5. Spatial and Functional Comfort 4. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Definition: Ensuring the spatial layout supports the intended use of Definition: The degree to which the air in a building is free of the building and is adaptable to changing needs. pollutants, appropriately humidified, and thermally balanced. Mandates and Metrics: Mandates and Metrics: Accessibility standards (e.g., ADA compliance for universal Minimum ventilation rates (e.g., ASHRAE Standard design). 62.1). Space efficiency (e.g., adequate circulation paths, workspace Control of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ergonomics). particulates (measured in μg/m³). Scale and Proportion. Humidity control to prevent mold growth. Connection to the Environment. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Levels Flexibility for multi-use purposes. Why It Matters? Why It Matters? Good IAQ reduces health risks, enhances productivity, and Spatial comfort allows users to feel safe, secure, and at ease within a aligns with sustainable building certifications. space, fostering both productivity and satisfaction. Improves inclusivity, ensuring all users, including those with disabilities, can access and utilize the building. Supports well-being by adapting spaces to occupant needs  6. Environmental Comfort Definition: The integration of the building with its natural surroundings and its performance in energy and resource efficiency. Mandates and Metrics: Sustainable energy use (energy consumption benchmarks per square meter). Renewable energy integration (e.g., solar panels, geothermal systems). Connection to nature (biophilic design principles). Why It Matters? Comfort is not just internal—it also reflects how a building respects and interacts with its external environment. Low-energy buildings Environmental buildings Sustainable Architecture Pioneering Concepts such as the Passive Solar Design re-emerged as a response to energy scarcity. Architects focused on maximizing Low-energy buildings sunlight for heating during winter while reducing heat gain in The concept of low energy buildings has evolved over time, summer. driven by advancements in technology, societal needs, and Governments introduced building codes mandating improved environmental concerns. energy efficiency Before modern energy systems, buildings were designed to Originating in Germany (1988), the Passive House standard naturally regulate temperature. (Passivhaus) set rigorous requirements for low energy buildings: These early designs focused on harnessing natural resources Ultra-low heating and cooling energy demand. (sunlight, wind, and thermal mass) for heating, cooling, and Airtight construction and mechanical ventilation with heat ventilation. recovery (MVHR). With the advent of coal, steam power, and later electricity Passive House became a global benchmark for energy-efficient (Industrialization), buildings became reliant on mechanical design. systems for heating, cooling, and lighting. The concept of net-zero energy buildings (ZEBs) emerged, where Traditional passive strategies were largely abandoned as energy buildings generate as much energy as they consume over a year became inexpensive and widely available. through renewable energy sources. During the global Oil Crisis (1973–1979), governments and Governments and organizations began setting ambitious goals, researchers began advocating for energy-efficient building such as the European Union’s Nearly Zero-Energy Building (NZEB) designs to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. directive. Environmental buildings Key Environmental Aspects (not limited to) A design approach emphasizing harmony with the natural 1. Energy and Atmosphere: Emphasizes energy efficiency, environment, reducing the building's environmental renewable energy use, and reduction of greenhouse gas footprint during construction, operation, and emissions. decommissioning, while integrating harmoniously with natural systems. 2. Materials and Resources: Encourages the use of Energy crises in the 1970s forced architects to rethink sustainable building materials and waste reduction reliance on fossil fuels and prompted interest in energy- strategies. efficient and climate-responsive buildings. The 1980s saw the institutionalization of environmental 3. Water Efficiency: Aims to reduce water consumption principles with the development of green building through efficient fixtures and sustainable landscaping. frameworks BREEAM (1990): The UK-based Building Research 4. Sustainable Sites: Promotes responsible site selection and Establishment Environmental Assessment Method development to minimize environmental impact. became the world’s first green building certification. LEED (1998): Leadership in Energy and 5. Indoor Environmental Quality: Focuses on improving Environmental Design was introduced in the U.S. to indoor air quality and access to natural light. guide sustainable design. Sustainable Architecture Sustainable design is a holistic approach that integrates 3. Durability and Adaptability: environmental, social, and economic considerations into the design process to minimize negative impacts and Products are designed to be long-lasting and adaptable to enhance positive outcomes. It aims to create products, changing user needs, reducing the need for frequent systems, and environments that are efficient, durable, replacements and conserving resources. and beneficial to both people and the planet. Key Principles of Sustainable Architecture: 4. Social Responsibility: 1. Resource Efficiency: Sustainable design promotes ethical labor practices, fair Sustainable design prioritizes the use of renewable, trade sourcing, and positive community impacts. It ensures recycled, and biodegradable materials to minimize resource that products and systems are inclusive and equitable. depletion. It focuses on energy-efficient manufacturing, reducing material waste, and optimizing the use of natural resources. 5. Economic Viability: 2. Lifecycle Thinking: Sustainable design balances environmental goals with economic efficiency, offering long-term cost savings without Designers consider the full lifecycle of a product—from compromising product quality or performance. material sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution to usage and end-of-life disposal. This approach reduces environmental harm by designing for longevity, recyclability, and minimal waste. The environmental aspects of sustainable design focus on minimizing negative impacts on the natural environment 3. Waste Reduction and Management throughout a product's or system's lifecycle. These aspects guide designers to make choices that conserve resources, - Designing for minimal waste generation throughout the lifecycle. reduce pollution, and protect ecosystems. - Promoting reuse, recycling, and composting of materials. - Implementing circular design principles (cradle-to-cradle). Key Environmental Aspects in Sustainable Design: 4. Pollution Prevention 1. Energy Efficiency - Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, toxins, and - Reducing energy consumption during production, use, and other pollutants. disposal phases. - Limiting air, water, and soil contamination during - Incorporating renewable energy sources (solar, wind, production and product use. geothermal). - Using eco-friendly production processes and non-toxic - Designing buildings and products that require less energy finishes. to operate. 5. Water Conservation 2. Material Selection and Resource Conservation - Reducing water consumption in manufacturing and - Using sustainable, renewable, or recycled materials. product use. - Prioritizing local materials to reduce transportation - Incorporating water-efficient systems and technologies. emissions. - Preventing water pollution through sustainable waste - Minimizing the use of hazardous substances. management. 6. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Protection 8. Lifecycle Impact Assessment - Avoiding practices that harm natural habitats and - Evaluating the environmental impact at every stage: ecosystems. extraction, manufacturing, distribution, usage, and disposal. - Designing projects that support biodiversity (green roofs, wildlife corridors). - Making improvements to reduce the overall ecological footprint. - Minimizing land use and deforestation. 9. Sustainable Transportation 7. Carbon Footprint Reduction - Designing for efficient logistics and supply chains to cut - Lowering carbon emissions associated with materials, transportation emissions. transportation, and operations. - Supporting public transport, cycling, and pedestrian- - Offsetting unavoidable emissions through carbon-neutral friendly infrastructure. initiatives.  Purpose of Rating Systems 1. Promote Sustainability Goals: Rating Systems Help designers and builders prioritize energy efficiency, resource conservation, and occupant well-being. Rating systems play a critical role in 2. Provide Measurable Standards: sustainable architecture by formalizing Offer clear metrics and performance criteria to evaluate the environmental impact of buildings measurable standards, incentivizing throughout their lifecycle. innovation, and fostering accountability in 3. Encourage Innovation: building performance. Foster the adoption of new technologies and techniques that improve sustainability They guide architects, engineers, and performance. 4. Lifecycle Integration: developers in creating buildings that are Emphasize considering the entire lifecycle of buildings, from material selection to construction, environmentally responsible while operation, and demolition. integrating social equity and economic 5. Market Recognition: viability. By thoughtfully applying these Certified buildings are often viewed as high-quality, environmentally responsible investments, frameworks, the built environment can driving the adoption of sustainable practices in the industry. contribute meaningfully to a resilient, 6. Performance Monitoring: inclusive, and sustainable future. Encourage ongoing assessment and performance optimization, ensuring buildings remain sustainable long after construction. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future by 2030. Adopted by all UN Member States in 2015, the 17 SDGs address critical global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and peace. Why? - Energy Consumption: In 2022, buildings accounted for about 34% of global energy demand, highlighting their substantial role in energy consumption. - Contribution to GHG Emissions: Global Emissions Share: The buildings and construction sector is responsible for approximately 37% of global energy and process-related CO₂ emissions. - Resource Consumption: The construction sector is responsible for consuming over 60% of the world's natural resources, including materials like timber, stone, sand, and metals. Key SDGs Relevant to Sustainable Design 2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities 1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Goal: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Goal: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, Relevance to Design: and modern energy for all. ▪ Develop green buildings that use eco-friendly Relevance to Design: materials and energy-efficient systems. o Promote the integration of renewable energy systems (solar panels, wind turbines) in buildings. ▪ Incorporate public green spaces and sustainable urban mobility systems (bike lanes, public transport). o Design energy-efficient products and infrastructure to reduce energy demand. ▪ Implement disaster-resilient infrastructure to o Utilize smart grids and energy storage solutions for withstand natural hazards. better energy management. Statistics: Statistics: ▪ By 2050, nearly 70% of the global population is In 2021, around 733 million people still lacked projected to live in urban areas, increasing demand access to electricity, mainly in developing regions. for sustainable infrastructure. 3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production 4. SDG 13: Climate Action Goal: Ensure sustainable consumption and production Goal: Take urgent action to combat climate change and patterns. its impacts. Relevance to Design: Relevance to Design: ▪ Apply circular design principles to minimize ▪ Design carbon-neutral or net-zero buildings. waste and maximize resource efficiency. ▪ Integrate climate-resilient infrastructure that ▪ Use eco-friendly, recycled, or biodegradable adapts to extreme weather events. materials in products and construction. ▪ Use low-carbon materials (e.g., green ▪ Design products for durability, repairability, concrete, bamboo). and recyclability. Statistics: Statistics: ▪ Buildings and construction contribute to 39% ▪ The construction sector is responsible for of global carbon emissions, with 11% from about 30% of global resource consumption building materials and construction processes. and 12% of water use. 5. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation 6. SDG 15: Life on Land Goal: Ensure availability and sustainable management Goal: Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of of water and sanitation for all. terrestrial ecosystems. Relevance to Design: Relevance to Design: ▪ Implement water-saving fixtures, greywater ▪ Preserve natural habitats in urban planning. recycling, and rainwater harvesting systems. ▪ Use sustainable forestry products to reduce ▪ Use permeable materials to improve stormwater management and reduce runoff. deforestation. Statistics: ▪ Incorporate green roofs and living walls to support biodiversity. ▪ 2.3 billion people globally still lack basic sanitation services. Statistics: ▪ United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) ▪ 13 million hectares of forest are lost annually, estimated that 2 billion people worldwide mainly due to urban expansion and lack access to clean water. construction. (1 hectare = 10,000 m²) THANK YOU See you next week Dr. Shouib Mabdeh Department of Architectural Engineering [email protected] 20  Selected Topics in Architecture Design 0404482 Chapter Two Spring 2024 - 2025 Lecture Notes Basic Principles This session focuses on the foundational principles of sustainable design, emphasizing the relationship between buildings and their thermal General environment. Key concepts include heat transfer mechanisms—conduction, convection, and Introduction radiation—and their impact on a building’s energy performance. Additionally, principles such as thermal resistance, thermal mass, and the greenhouse effect will be explored to understand their role in energy efficiency and thermal comfort. The session highlights how these scientific principles can guide the design of buildings that are both energy-efficient and responsive to their environment, contributing to sustainable architectural practices.  1. Heat and Energy Fundamentals Heat and energy fundamentals form the basis of sustainable Latent Heat: building design by explaining how buildings interact with their Definition: Heat absorbed or released during a phase environment. Understanding these principles allows architects change (e.g., water evaporating to vapor or condensing back into liquid). and designers to control energy flows, optimize thermal Example: When moisture in warm air condenses on a performance, and reduce energy consumption. cold windowpane, latent heat is released. Relevance to Buildings: Understanding latent heat helps Types of Heat in designing HVAC systems and managing humidity levels for comfort and energy efficiency. Sensible Heat: Radiant Heat: Definition: Heat that causes a temperature change in a Definition: Heat transferred through electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight entering a building. material or space without altering its state (e.g., solid, Example: Direct sunlight warming up floors or furniture liquid, gas). in a room. Relevance to Buildings: Radiation is key in passive solar Example: Heating air inside a room from 20°C to 25°C. design, where sunlight is harnessed for heating during Relevance to Buildings: Managing sensible heat is cooler months. essential for controlling indoor air temperatures efficiently. Energy Flow in Buildings Energy flow refers to how heat enters, exits, or moves within a building. It can be influenced by the building's design, materials, and environmental conditions. Heat Gains: Internal Gains: Generated by occupants, appliances, and lighting. External Gains: From solar radiation, ambient temperature, and wind. Strategy: Minimize unwanted heat gains in hot climates (e.g., shading or reflective surfaces) and maximize gains in cold climates (e.g., large south-facing windows). Heat Losses: Occur through walls, windows, roofs, and ventilation. Strategy: Reduce losses through insulation, airtight construction, and efficient windows. 2. Mechanisms of Heat Transfer The mechanisms of heat transfer explain how energy moves through a building and directly impact thermal performance, energy efficiency, and comfort. By understanding these processes—conduction, convection, and radiation—designers can optimize building systems to minimize unwanted energy loss or gain and create sustainable, climate-responsive designs. 2.1 Conduction Definition: Conduction is the transfer of heat through solid materials. It occurs when heat energy moves from a warmer region to a cooler region within the material. How It Works: Heat travels through molecules in a material due to a temperature difference. For example, in a poorly insulated wall, heat will transfer from the warm interior to the colder exterior during winter. Key Factors Affecting Conduction: Thermal Conductivity (k): The ability of a material to conduct heat. Thickness of Material: Thicker materials reduce heat transfer. Temperature Difference: A larger temperature gradient increases the rate of heat transfer. 2.2 Convection 2.3 Radiation Definition: Convection is the transfer of heat through the Definition: Radiation is the transfer of heat through movement of fluids (liquids or gases). In buildings, it often electromagnetic waves. Unlike conduction or convection, it involves air circulation. does not require a medium (air, liquid, or solid) and can occur in a vacuum. How It Works: Heat transfer occurs when a fluid absorbs heat, becomes less dense, and rises. Cooler, denser air or How It Works: Heat is emitted from a warm surface in the liquid replaces it, creating a cycle. This process can be form of infrared radiation and absorbed by a cooler surface. natural or forced: For instance, the sun heats a building’s exterior walls Natural Convection: Heat transfer occurs due to through radiation, and the heat is then transferred inside. buoyancy forces, such as warm air rising. Forced Convection: Mechanical systems like fans or pumps circulate air or liquid to distribute heat. Key Factors Affecting Radiation: Surface Properties: Dark or matte surfaces absorb more radiation, while light or reflective surfaces Key Factors Affecting Convection: reflect it. Air Movement: Faster airflow increases heat Distance: Radiant heat decreases with distance transfer. from the source. Temperature Gradient: Greater differences in Orientation and Exposure: Surfaces directly temperature increase convection. exposed to sunlight absorb more radiant heat. Surface Area: Larger surfaces in contact with air or fluid increase heat exchange.  3. Thermal Comfort Thermal comfort refers to a condition in which occupants feel 3. Air Velocity: The movement of air around the occupant. - Proper airflow can enhance cooling by increasing the satisfied with the thermal environment. It is a crucial aspect of evaporation of sweat in warm environments. sustainable design, as maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures - Air velocity > 0.15 m/s is often desirable for cooling, while excessive drafts (> 0.3 m/s) may cause discomfort in with minimal energy use directly contributes to environmental and cooler conditions. social sustainability. 4. Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT): The average temperature Factors Influencing Thermal Comfort of all surrounding surfaces weighted by their impact on the Thermal comfort is affected by a combination of environmental and occupant. For instance, a cold window or wall can cause personal factors: discomfort even if the air temperature is comfortable. A. Environmental Factors: B. Personal Factors: 1. Air Temperature: The temperature of the air surrounding 1. Clothing Insulation (Clo): The thermal resistance of clothing the occupant. Optimal indoor air temperature typically affects how much heat is retained by the body. Light clothing is ranges between 20–24°C in winter and 23–26°C in summer. suitable for warmer environments, while layered clothing is 2. Humidity: The amount of moisture in the air. High humidity essential in colder climates. levels reduce the body’s ability to cool itself through 2. Metabolic Rate (Met): The amount of heat generated by the sweating, while low humidity can cause dryness and body due to activity. A person at rest generates less heat than discomfort. Ideal relative humidity: 30–70%. someone performing physical work. 4. Thermal Mass and Time Lag 4.2 Time Lag 4.1 Thermal Mass Definition: Time lag refers to the delay between when a material absorbs Definition: Thermal mass is the capacity of a material to heat and when it releases it. This is a crucial property in climates with absorb, store, and release heat. Materials with high significant day-night temperature variations. thermal mass can regulate temperature fluctuations by retaining heat during periods of excess and releasing it How It Works: when temperatures drop. During the day, thermal mass absorbs heat from sunlight or warm air. Key Characteristics of Thermal Mass: At night, as temperatures drop, the material releases the stored heat, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. 1.Heat Capacity: The amount of heat a material can store per unit volume. Factors Affecting the Effectiveness of Thermal Mass - Example: Concrete and brick have higher heat capacities than materials like wood or insulation. 1. Material Properties: High-density materials with good heat capacity (e.g., stone, concrete) are more effective as thermal mass. 2.Thermal Conductivity: The rate at which heat moves 2. Climate: Thermal mass is most effective in climates with significant through the material. Materials with moderate thermal diurnal temperature variations. conductivity (e.g., stone or adobe) are ideal for thermal 3. Surface Exposure: The surface area of thermal mass exposed to air or mass because they absorb and release heat steadily. sunlight determines its ability to absorb and release heat. 3.Density: Dense materials can store more heat than 4. Shading and Ventilation: Proper shading prevents unwanted heat lightweight ones. gain, and ventilation helps regulate heat release at night.  5. The Greenhouse Effect Definition of the Greenhouse Effect Benefits of the Greenhouse Effect in Architecture Architectural Context: 1. Passive Heating in Cold Climates: The greenhouse effect occurs when solar radiation passes - The greenhouse effect can be harnessed to naturally heat through transparent or translucent surfaces (e.g., windows, interiors in cold climates, reducing the need for mechanical skylights), is absorbed by interior surfaces, and is heating. subsequently trapped inside as heat. This happens because: - Example: Sunrooms or south-facing glass windows that Shortwave solar radiation penetrates glass and allow maximum solar gain during winter. heats the interior. Heated interior surfaces emit longwave infrared 2. Energy Efficiency: radiation. - By using the greenhouse effect strategically, buildings can Glass is less permeable to longwave radiation, reduce reliance on external energy sources for heating. trapping heat inside. - Example: Trombe walls absorb and store solar heat during the day, releasing it at night. 3. Daylighting Benefits: - Transparent surfaces not only facilitate heat gain but also improve natural lighting, reducing energy use for artificial lighting. Challenges of the Greenhouse Effect Mitigating Unwanted Greenhouse Effects 1. Overheating in Hot Climates: 1. Shading Devices: - In warm or tropical climates, excessive heat - Use of external shading systems, such as overhangs, louvers, and gain due to the greenhouse effect can lead to blinds, to block direct sunlight during peak hours. discomfort and increased cooling energy - Example: Horizontal overhangs are effective on south-facing windows, demand. while vertical shading works best on east- and west-facing windows. 2. Glare and Visual Discomfort: 2. Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass: - High-intensity sunlight entering through - Special coatings on glass reduce infrared radiation transmission while large windows can create glare, affecting maintaining visible light entry. occupant comfort. 3. Double or Triple Glazing: 3. Heat Loss in Winter: - Insulated glass units reduce heat transfer, minimizing unwanted heat - Without proper insulation, glass can also loss or gain. allow significant heat loss during cold nights, reducing the net benefit of solar gain. 4. Window Placement and Orientation: - Optimize window placement to allow solar gain in winter and block it in summer. - Example: North-facing windows in the northern hemisphere receive consistent, diffused light with minimal heat gain. 6. Thermal Resistance and Insulation 6.1 Thermal Resistance 6.2 Insulation Definition: Thermal resistance is a material’s ability to resist Definition: Insulation refers to materials or systems the flow of heat. It is represented as R-value, which designed to minimize heat transfer (conduction, convection, quantifies the effectiveness of insulation or building and radiation) between indoor and outdoor environments. materials in slowing heat transfer. Insulation improves energy efficiency by reducing the High R-Value: Indicates better insulation and energy required for heating or cooling a building. reduced heat flow. Low R-Value: Allows heat to transfer more freely through the material. 6.4 Types of Insulation Materials 1. Fiberglass Insulation Key Factors Affecting Thermal Resistance: 2. Foam Board (Rigid Insulation) 1. Material Type: Insulative materials like foam, fiberglass, 3. Spray Foam Insulation or mineral wool have high R-values. 4. Mineral Wool (Rock Wool) 2. Thickness: Thicker materials provide higher thermal 5. Reflective Insulation and Radiant Barriers resistance. 3. Density: Dense materials, such as concrete, may have lower thermal resistance but can act as thermal mass. 7. Embodied Energy in Materials Embodied Energy: The cumulative energy consumed by all Importance of Embodied Energy in Sustainable Design the processes associated with a material, from its raw extraction to its end-of-life disposal or recycling. 1. Environmental Impact: - Embodied energy contributes to a building’s total carbon footprint, particularly in materials with high Stages of Embodied Energy: energy-intensive production processes. - Example: Cement and steel have high embodied 1. Extraction: Mining or harvesting raw materials (e.g., energy due to the energy-intensive manufacturing cutting timber, mining ore). processes. 2. Manufacturing: Converting raw materials into usable 2. Lifecycle Consideration: products (e.g., producing steel, firing bricks). - While operational energy (e.g., heating, cooling, 3. Transportation: Shipping materials from production lighting) has historically been the focus, embodied sites to construction locations. energy is increasingly recognized as a significant 4. Construction: Energy used in assembling materials on- contributor to a building’s overall energy use. site. 3. Durability and Longevity: 5. Maintenance and Repair: Energy involved in upkeep - High-embodied-energy materials may be justifiable if during the building’s lifecycle. they are durable and reduce operational energy demands over time. 6. Demolition and Disposal: Energy required to dismantle, recycle, or dispose of materials. - Example: High-performance glazing or insulation materials. High-Embodied-Energy Materials Low-Embodied-Energy Materials Materials with significant embodied energy due to energy- Sustainable alternatives with lower energy demands during intensive production: production: - Aluminum: Requires large amounts of energy for - Timber: Renewable and lower embodied energy extraction and smelting. compared to steel or concrete. - Steel: Energy-intensive production due to high- - Bamboo: Fast-growing, renewable, and versatile. temperature processes. - Recycled Materials: Recycled steel, reclaimed wood, or - Concrete and Cement: High energy demand for cement repurposed bricks significantly reduce embodied energy. production (responsible for ~8% of global CO₂ emissions). - Natural Materials: Adobe, rammed earth, and straw bales have low embodied energy and are locally sourced in many regions. Embodied Energy and Operational Energy - Embodied Energy: One-time energy use during construction and material production. - Operational Energy: Ongoing energy used during a building's lifecycle for heating, cooling, lighting, etc. THANK YOU See you next week Dr. Shouib Mabdeh Department of Architectural Engineering [email protected] 14