Multi-Criteria Analysis of Material Compositions of External Walls

Abstract

Intensity of building development increases by growing population and their requirements on living. Buildings belong to the largest energy consumers and greenhouse gases emitters. Current energy strategy of European Union is focused especially on reduction of operational energy of buildings. Although operational energy participates the highest proportion in total energy consumption over whole life cycle of building, it is important to take into account embodied energy. Values of embodied energy and associated emissions grow by improving energy quality of building envelope by using extra components and insulation materials. This paper demonstrates significance of correct selection of materials in order to environmental and energy optimalization of building structures. The designed material compositions of external wall alternatives are evaluated by methodology LCA and also in the view of impact on future energy consumption though thermal-physical parameters. Results of assessments are compared by multi-criteria decision analysis. The optimized alternative achieves very low embodied energy (218 MJ/m2) and high reduction of embodied CO2 (-114 kg CO2eq/m2).