Search results for " lca"

Report on Life cycle analysis - Task 48 - Activities A2-B3 Final report

2014

This technical report describes the research activities developed within Subtasks A2 “Life cycle analysis at component level” and B3 “Life cycle analysis at system level”. Subtask A2 is focused on developing studies to assess the energy and environmental performances of components of solar cooling and heating (SHC) systems. In detail, the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach applied to SHC systems, started by IEA Task 38, is further developed to give a ready to use collection of datasheets allowing estimating the energy and environmental impacts of different SHC systems during their life cycle. The results of the activities developed within Subtask A2 are used to update and complete a datab…

Luminescent Solar Concentrator (LSC): preliminary phases of the LCA analysis applied to the Smart Window-LSC

2019

Luminescent solar concentrators (LSC) represent one of the innovative technologies related to Building Integrated PhotoVoltaics (BIPV). T hanks to their characteristic of being semi-transparent and of functioning both with direct and diffused radiation, the se devices can be integrated to the surface of the buildings, in particular in replacement of openings such as skylights or windows. They do not require solar tracking systems that are used in classic solar concentrators and allow reducing the presence of silicon compared to traditional photovoltaic panels.

A generalization of the orthogonal regression technique for life cycle inventory

2012

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a method used to quantify the environmental impacts of a product, process, or service across its whole life cycle. One of the problems occurring when the system at hand involves processes delivering more than one valuable output is the apportionment of resource consumption and environmental burdens in the correct proportion amongst the products. The mathematical formulation of the problem is represented by the solution of an over-determined system of linear equations. The paper describes the application of an iterative algorithm for the implementation of least square regression to solve this over-determined system directly in its rectangular form. The applied …

Marble quarrying: an energy and waste intensive activity in the production of building materials

2008

Marble represents an important component of Italian buildings, where it is often utilized as a covering for bottom surfaces, despite its relatively high price. Moreover, it characterizes several public buildings, for which it is by far the most important decorative material, also because of its structural features and its long durability. Unfortunately, marble quarrying is an energy intensive activity that requires relevant amounts of electric and thermal energy sources; in addition, the extraction of the marble blocks from the mountain sides does involve a noticeable quantity of explosives, particularly in sites where traditional working methods are utilized. Another important feature of t…

La ripresa agonistica dopo intervento di LCA del ginocchio

2015

First Life Cycle Impact Considerations of Two Wave Energy Converters

2018

The work presents two different revolutionary devices for the utilization of a new entry of renewable energy sources: sea wave. The first technology is based on linear generators, able to directly converts a linear motion into electrical output, limiting to minimum the chain of energy conversion. The other solution is based on a mechanical motion converter, coupled with alternators. The scope of this paper is to compare the two different systems designed by University of Palermo, through Life Cycle Assessment, in order to evaluate the global effects of the two systems to the environment.

Mechanical and environmental performance comparisons of improved asphalt pavement wearing courses with high quality aggregates, steel slags, and poly…

2023

The use of waste materials in the construction of hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavements is an important opportunity for environmental sustainability. When properly designed, the alternative mixtures may also guarantee excellent mechanical performance. In this study, the results of an experimental analysis carried out on dense-graded HMAs are presented. In particular, the performance of a "traditional" surface mixture with limestone aggregate (designed with neat bitumen or a polymer-modified bitumen within the typical acceptance requirements for intended use in wearing courses) was compared with two alternative mixtures. The research investigated a surface mixture including coarse basaltic aggrega…

Packaging and plastic are synonymous with waste: But is that really the case?

2022

The paper presents the value of packaging and misconceptions about plastic. In addition to shedding light on clichés and fake news about plastic and packaging, it outlines opportunities to consider the use and management of packaging for responsible waste collection; and new forms of consumption and supply chains to facilitate the transition from the current linear consumption model to one that is more responsible and open to a circular economy.

An Innovative Photovoltaic Luminescent Solar Concentrator Window: Energy and Environmental Aspects

2022

Over the years, different types of smart windows have been tested and developed. In this study, an innovative prototype of a photovoltaic smart window, that integrates luminescent solar concentrators, was analysed. The device independently regulates the movement of the shading system and allows energy surplus, through the electricity generated by modules. Considering the peculiar structure (characterized by the presence of a light shelf) and the thermal characteristics of the device, the analyses focused on optical, thermal, and electrical performances, comparing them with those of a traditional window. The analysis followed an experimental approach that involved lighting and electrical mon…

ALTERNATIVE MODELS FOR BUILDING ENERGY PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

2020

The research activity carried out during the three years of the PhD course attended, at the Engineering Department of the University of Palermo, was aimed at the identification of an alternative predictive model able to solve the traditional building thermal balance in a simple but reliable way, speeding up any first phase of energy planning. Nowadays, worldwide directives aimed at reducing energy consumptions and environmental impacts have focused the attention of the scientific community on improving energy efficiency in the building sector. The reduction of energy consumption and CO2 emissions for heating and cooling needs of buildings is an important challenge for the European Union, be…