On the thermal-energy performance of 3D printed concrete wall panels designed with varying insulation ratios

Abstract

Three-dimensional printed concrete (3DPC) is a promising construction method that has gained recognition in recent years. With the growing focus on energy-efficient buildings, it is important to understand the thermal-energy performance of 3DPC panels, particularly with different insulation options. However, current knowledge in this area is limited. Therefore, this research investigates the thermal-energy performance of 3DPC walls with various insulation materials and insulation layer heights. Thermal models were developed using THERM 7.8 software and validated against available literature and ISO 10211 thermal test cases. A total of 42 numerical models were developed, varying wall width (100 mm and 200 mm), insulation ratios (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0), and insulation materials (mineral wool, rockwool, fibre glass wool, and E-PLA). The results demonstrated that increasing the insulation ratio leads to a lower U-value. New design equations were developed to capture the effect of insulation ratios, and these equations accurately predicted U-values. This study contributes to understanding the thermal-energy performance of 3DPC walls with different insulation options, and the proposed equations can assist in designing energy-efficient buildings with 3DPC panels.