Buildings account for approximately 40% of energy consumption and 36% of annual greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Advancing energy-efficient innovations in building envelopes can substantially lower energy demand and significantly reduce the operational carbon footprint of buildings. Sponsored by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), this project focuses on the design and development of a lab-scale apparatus to demonstrate the role of energy-efficient building envelopes in reducing energy consumption and supporting building decarbonization. The system simulates heat transfer through various wall and roof assemblies under controlled conditions, providing a hands-on tool for evaluating thermal performance and engaging students in sustainable building practices.
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