Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Residential Properties
The 3D-EE-Struct project, currently ongoing, is focusing on integrating Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into lightweight construction structures adapted to Portugal's climate. This innovative approach aims to significantly lower energy bills, improve thermal comfort, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Portuguese residences.
Coordinated by the University of Coimbra, the project boasts collaboration from institutions in Portugal, the US, Slovakia, and India. Funding for the project, amounting to approximately €173,000, was provided through a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship under the Horizon Europe programme.
The main goals of the project include lowering household energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and developing practical and proven strategies for PCM integration in new builds and refurbishments. Specifically, the project aims to achieve up to 25% energy savings in heating and cooling needs in small homes.
Ajitanshu Vedrtnam, a researcher at the Association for the Development of Industrial Aerodynamics (ADAI) at FCTUC, explained that PCMs work like thermal batteries, storing heat during the day and releasing it when needed, reducing the reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.
The project will test simulation models in a real flat in Coimbra, and it intends to support climate-adapted and affordable housing solutions. Furthermore, the project will optimize PCM placement and selection to ensure the most effective thermal regulation and reduced energy use.
The 3D-EE.Struct project will provide scientific tools and building strategies for future research and commercial development in sustainable construction, promoting relevant energy savings and comfort, with a focus on making these solutions commercially viable and sustainable in the construction sector.
- The 3D-EE-Struct project, in collaboration with institutions from Portugal, the US, Slovakia, and India, is applying environmental science by integrating Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into lightweight structures, specifically in the Portuguese home-and-garden sector, with the goal of promoting sustainable living and combating climate-change through energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
- Within the realm of environmental-science, Ajitanshu Vedrtnam, a researcher at the Association for the Development of Industrial Aerodynamics (ADAI) at FCTUC, explains that these PCMs work like thermal batteries, storing heat during the day and releasing it when needed, reducing the need for mechanized heating and cooling systems, thereby contributing to an efficient and environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
- The subsequent phase of the 3D-EE-Struct project entails the testing of simulation models in a real flat in Coimbra and optimizing PCM placement and selection for effective thermal regulation and reduced energy use, with the ultimate aim of providing scientific tools and sustainable building strategies for research, commercial development, and the creation of climate-adapted and affordable housing solutions that prioritize energy savings and comfort.
