Thermal behavior of three prototypes in Saltillo, Cohuila (with earth blocks, concrete and egg cap)

Abstract

Climate change has been worsening in the 20th century, causing seasonal changes in the habitat at a global level. Significant variations in climate factors are seen, increasing temperatures in cities. In Mexico, thermal conditioning of houses has a major impact on the electricity demand, which is greater in the northern and coastal areas of the country. The role of the envelope, when referring to heat gains or losses that are achieved by their temperature variation transfer, is to maintain a balance between the outside and the inside. The goal of this work was to compare the thermal behavior of three modules located in Saltillo, Coahuila; built using three different materials, one experimental and two commonly used in Saltillo homes. The methodology has a quantitative focus and measurements were made from 2018 to 2019. The results show that there are no relevant differences between the experimental material and other commercial materials in the most critical months, January and May, with just 1 or 2 degrees. Thus, it is relevant to continue experimenting and complementing with a passive system, like a Canadian well, with the goal of improving comfort in the built habitat.