Term 232

Green Chemistry In Building Envelopes: Sustainable U-Value Reduction Through Eco-Friendly Materials And Processes

Project Type: Self-Initiated

Project Description

In 2021, Saudi Arabia experienced a significant 4.23% rise in electrical energy consumption, reaching 301,600 gigawatt-hours (figure 1). If we go deeper, we can notice that the electricity consumption will significantly raise in other seasons compared with winter and one of the reasons of that is the increased in air conditioning use during peak heat periods (figure 2). In response, the government is focusing on boosting energy efficiency, particularly through enhanced insulation techniques. The insulation market in Saudi Arabia is projected to more than double, growing from USD 100 million to USD 230 million by 2030 (figure 3). This expansion is driven by extensive construction projects and regulatory reforms designed to elevate insulation adoption from 4% to 20%, underscoring the country's commitment to sustainable energy management. Our project aims to enhance building energy efficiency using PCM Glycerides (esters from glycerol and fatty acids) for insulation in hot, desert regions where temperatures range from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. The project is expected to significantly enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, improve indoor comfort, and promote sustainable building practices in hot, desert regions, while ensuring durability and market compliance.