Key Points:

• Exploring the research paper - Moisture_safety_for_energy-efficient_CLT_envelopes_pathways_to_net-zero_operational_energy_for_engineered_wood_multi-storey_buildings_in_Australian_tropical_and_subtropical_climates​
• Benefits to using Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), however adapting to suit hot-humid climates in Australia.
• Investigating through simulation and physical testing, the durability, energy efficiency & economic implications of NZEB's that employ optimised CLT solutions for sub-tropical & tropical Australian climates.
• Pilot project adopted to evaluate hygrothermal durability of a net-zero energy CLT building.

Introduction:

Rapid and comprehensive transitions in the building construction industry are required to mitigate the effects of climate change, including utilising sustainable building materials and designing buildings that operate more efficiently while maintaining adequate thermal comfort.

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is becoming popular due to its renewability when sourced sustainably, and its CO2 storage. Its hygrothermal properties may provide thermal and durability performance improvements over conventional multi-storey construction methods — reinforced concrete and steel framing — when used in ultra-low energy buildings.

However, as the market for these structures expands, CLT buildings are being erected in hot-humid climates. This occurs as Australian and global building industries transition towards net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs), where lower air infiltration and greater levels of insulation are prescribed. CLT construction and ultra-low energy building standards were originally developed for temperate and cold climates; buildings in subtropical and tropical climates face significantly different external conditions and require climate-specific solutions.

This project was set within the ARC Future Timber Hub, a government funded initiative at UQ School of Engineering, which aimed to develop novel methodologies and practices for the design of tall timber buildings in Australia, considering architectural, engineering and sustainability drivers while meeting the intent of regulatory constraints.

Join us for a 1-hour webinar session with Marcus Strang to learn about the possibility for designers, builders and projects team building designs with mass timber to ensure the long term performance of multi-storey CLT building with climate-specific solutions that optimises energy performance, freedom from moisture risk and good indoor environmental quality.

• Date: 24th April 2024
• Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm (AEST)