Utilization of puzzolanic pomeca in envelopes: experimental development of an insulating panel for housing in the arid regions of Argentina

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the puzzolanic pomeca and to experimentally develop and insulating panel for improving the hygrothermal conditioning of social housing in the arid regions of San Juan, taking into consideration the minimum quality standards. The methodology considers the development of studies of characterization, thermal design and techno-constructive analysis, using vertical opaque natural materials for the envelope, which includes this one of volcanic origin. Internal temperatures below 23 °C have been obtained, while the outer face of the panel with insulation and no paint reaches 54 °C, with 830W/m2 of solar radiation. This demonstrates that it is possible to use Pomeca as filling in adequate thicknesses and as insulation panels, in order to reduce thermal losses at low costs. It integrates an alternative technological system using simple production and construction techniques and contributes to reduce energy expenses, satisfying different needs of the low income social groups and protecting the environment.