6533b86cfe1ef96bd12c898b

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Numerical models for long-term performance assessment of lightweight insulating assemblies

subject

description

Abstract This paper presents the results of numerical modelling of hygrothermal processes in test buildings situated in the Botanical garden of the University of Latvia. Long-term performance of wall, floor and ceiling insulating assemblies for five different buildings was simulated using WUFI Pro 6.3. On the experimental side, measurements of temperature and relative humidity at key points of assembles have been accumulated over a period of roughly six years and material samples were taken from building envelope materials for biological analysis. We found that our models rather successfully reproduce the experientially observed temperature and relative humidity dynamics. In the process, we established material models for building envelope components, as well as different parameters that we previously unknown. We also compared mould growth risk predictions via the Sedlbauer critical curve model derived from both simulations and experiment against the results of lab tests conducted on materials samples - all three were found to be in good agreement, indicating that the Sedlbauer model is applicable to local climate conditions, as well as further validating numerical models.