Web tool for quantitative sustainability evaluation of hygro-thermally optimized insulation solutions

S. Walther*, M. Birkved, T.H. Perkov, S.P. Bjarløv

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalConference articleResearchpeer-review

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    Abstract

    This study is part of the EU funded project RiBuild and aims to create a web tool for supporting decisions relating to energy retrofits of historic buildings. The web tool provides a quantitative sustainability evaluation of hygro-thermally optimized insulation solutions through a greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions indicator. The study presents LCAs of five insulation systems for installation in historic buildings. The web tool accommodates 160 locations in seven countries and generates 210,180 impact profiles by combining insulation system, installation location, and heating systems. In 2 % of the scenarios, the induced impacts exceed the avoided impacts. Across all analyses, the mineral wool insulation system is the least GHG intensive solution. This study illuminates that the environmental justification of internal insulation depends on the geographical location of installation and the installed heating system in the retrofitted building. To further improve the sustainability performance of energy retrofits in historic buildings, the implementation of insulation recycling solutions and measures for reducing production impacts of insulation systems are needed.
    Original languageEnglish
    Article number012029
    JournalI O P Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science
    Volume352
    Issue number1
    Number of pages8
    ISSN1755-1307
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2019
    Event1st Nordic conference on Zero Emission and Plus Energy Buildings - Trondheim, Norway
    Duration: 6 Nov 20197 Nov 2019
    Conference number: 1

    Conference

    Conference1st Nordic conference on Zero Emission and Plus Energy Buildings
    Number1
    Country/TerritoryNorway
    CityTrondheim
    Period06/11/201907/11/2019

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