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Energy efficiency in hot climates: switchable insulation for sustainable building envelopes

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Energy efficiency in hot climates: switchable insulation for sustainable building envelopes

04 November 2024
New study shows how Switchable Insulation Systems (SISs), using eco-friendly, low-cost materials, offer adaptable and energy-efficient insulation for hot climates, though simpler designs may be more affordable and effective than advanced technologies.
Editorial Team

Switchable Insulation Systems (SISs) offer a sustainable alternative to traditional insulation by adjusting thermal properties based on environmental conditions, yet affordability in specific applications remains a challenge. 

This study, titled 'Applicability of developing an affordable eco-friendly switchable insulation for sustainable building envelopes in a hot climate: Comprehensive review', reviews the development of low-cost SISs suitable for hot climates using eco-friendly materials. The research follows three phases: analysing current trends, exploring materials and technologies, and assessing system applicability. 

Findings highlight the high costs and complexity of advanced SIS technologies like smart windows and thermal diodes. A promising solution involves integrating affordable materials—like recycled PET, waste glass, and natural fibers—into simpler SIS designs, enhancing energy efficiency, thermal performance, and environmental impact.

12/09/2024

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Alaa Salah, Sameh Nada, Hatem Mahmoud
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