A comparative performance analysis of building insulation and different plant-covered walls in a semi arid climate

¹ Department of Architecture, University of Larbi Ben Mhidi, Oum El Bouaghi, 04000, Algeria
² Bioclimatic Architecture and Environment Laboratory, University Constantine 3 Salah Boubnider, 25000, Constantine, Algeria

^* Corresponding author: benhalilou.karima@univ-oeb.dz

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of the performance of building insulation and various types of plant-covered walls under semi-arid climate. With the rising concerns over energy consumption and environmental impact in building design, exploring passive and sustainable alternatives for cooling systems has become imperative. In this context, the effectiveness of traditional building insulation methods is compared with the thermal energy performance of different plant-covered walls. The aim of the research is to assess the thermal efficiency and cooling capabilities of these different wall systems under similar environmental conditions. To conduct the analysis, simulation scenarios were defined and several simulations were carried out using TRNSYS simulation software, with a focus on operative temperature variations and energy consumption. To do this, a mathematical model has been developed to characterize the effects of plant-covered walls and considering the interactions between buildings, vegetation, and the environment. In order to validate the model, numerical results were compared with experimental data, and strong correlations were found. The study reveals that plant-covered walls exhibit promising cooling effects when compared to traditional building insulation. Acting as a natural barrier against solar radiation, these walls mitigate heat absorption and indoor temperatures.