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The framework of the research presented in the paper is a project oriented to promote the use of concrete solutions in buildings based on maximizing the benefits of its thermal inertia for cooling periods.
The constructive solution developed has one configuration for summer (cooling mode). This configuration is similar to a ventilated facade that is formed by a thermally insulated outer layer of concrete, an intermediate air layer and an inner layer of concrete. The inner layer is cooled at night by forced ventilation using an outdoor - outdoor scheme.
The aim of this paper is to show the preliminary results about the potential of special concrete walls as solutions to reduce energy demand in residential buildings by thermal offset in Spanish Mediterranean climates.
In summer, the concrete building facades are used as heat sinks. The aim is to cool the inner layer of concrete moving outdoor air through the air layer during night taking advantage of the low nigh-time air temperatures. The cool stored is released to the interior spaces when the maximum peak load of the space takes place.
With the aim of select a proper design of the innovative element, the influence of the thickness of the inner layer, the air velocity in the chamber and control lays to activate the ventilation are analysed. Simulations show that the use of this element is very promising for reducing energy demand in residential buildings in the Spanish climates.
Experiments are currently performing (summer 2014).