Comparing Environmental, Economic, and Thermal Performance of Building Wall Materials

What is it about?

This research focuses on evaluating autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) and fired brick materials for exterior building walls in tropical climates. It assesses six different wall construction schemes: three for AAC and three for fired brick, including single-layer, double-layer with air gap, and double-layer with expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam insulation. The study analyzes the environmental impacts, life cycle costs (LCCA), and thermal resistance (R-value) of these wall schemes. It employs the Stepwise2006 method and the ecoinvent database for environmental impact quantification, and analyzes costs using Stepwise2006 weighting factors. The findings highlight that AAC walls have greater environmental impacts and higher total costs than fired brick walls, largely due to cement production. However, AAC walls offer better thermal resistance, especially in double-layer configurations. The study concludes that the single-layer fired brick wall is the most preferable choice considering environmental impact, cost, and thermal performance.

Featured Image

Photo by Yash Patel on Unsplash

Photo by Yash Patel on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research is significant as it provides a comprehensive comparison of environmental burdens, economic costs, and thermal performance of two prevalent building materials in tropical climates. The focus on AAC and fired brick is crucial given their widespread use and the growing need for sustainable construction practices. By analyzing different wall schemes, the study offers insights into the trade-offs between environmental impact, cost, and thermal efficiency, which are key considerations in sustainable building design. This work is particularly relevant for architects, engineers, and builders in tropical regions where energy efficiency and environmental impacts are increasingly prioritized. The findings contribute to better-informed decisions in the selection of building materials, promoting more sustainable construction practices. KEY TAKEAWAY: The single-layer fired brick wall is the most sustainable choice for tropical climates, offering a balanced trade-off between environmental impact, cost, and thermal efficiency. This research relates to the following Sustainable Development Goals: • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure • SDG 13: Climate Action • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production