Comparative study of hygrothermal simulations of a masonry wall. (October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Knarud, Jon Ivar; Geving, Stig
• Is Part Of: Energy procedia. Volume 132(2017)
• Page Start: 771
• Page End: 776
• Publication Date: 2017-10
• Subjects: Hygrothermal -- 2D simulation -- COMSOL 5.2 -- WUFI 2D 3.4 -- Masonry; Power resources -- Congresses; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power resources; Conference proceedings; Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.egypro.2017.10.027
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1876-6102

Abstract

Abstract: With increasing requirements on reducing heat consumption and improving comfort levels of existing buildings, interior insulation retrofit is a hot topic for many masonry buildings. However, as the drying potential of the wall is lowered as a consequence, interior insulation of massive masonry walls increases the risk of moisture related problems. Therefore, carefulness is needed when approaching such solutions. A useful approach on evaluating moisture risks, when deciding the interior insulation design, is the use of hygrothermal simulations. In the present study a 2D numerical hygrothermal study has been conducted on an internally insulated masonry wall with a smart vapor barrier. The focus has been on comparing and discussing the options available in, and the challenges faced with, COMSOL Multiphysics and WUFI for this purpose.