Experimental Assessment and Inspection of Materials and Systems

Recommended Prerequisites

Knowledge in the thermal and energy performance of buildings.

Teaching Methods

In teaching the course, it is anticipated the presentation of theoretical concepts and advanced knowledge on the topics defined in the syllabus. Whenever possible, the practical component will be privileged, with regular visits to the laboratory and survey campaigns in-situ.

Learning Outcomes

Provide students with detailed knowledge in laboratory characterization techniques, materials and construction solutions, particularly of their hygrothermal behaviour; to acquire a wider understanding of properties of materials and construction solutions, as well as the applicable requirements; to study construction solutions with greatest influence in the energy performance of buildings (eg insulation, windows, etc.).

In a second phase, it is intended to provide skills for evaluate in-situ parameters influencing the hygrothermal behavior of buildings. Moreover, expertise on the energy audits will be promoted, preparing students to evaluate the energy performance of existing buildings.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1 - Functional requirements of materials and construction solutions;

2 - Laboratory techniques to characterise materials;

3 - Experimental techniques to evaluate building solutions;

4 - In-situ techniques to assess the building envelope;

5 - Meteorological data and analysis of hygrothermal conditions and indoor air quality.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 30.0%
Laboratory work or Field work: 30.0%
Research work: 40.0%

Bibliography

-Maldague X. (2001). "Theory and practice of infrared technology for non-destructive testing". pp. 1-618, John Wiley & Sons.

-Vollmer M., Mollmann K.-P. (2010). "Infrared thermal imaging. Fundamentals research and applications". pp. 1-593, Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.

- International organization for standardization. ISO 9869. "Thermal insulation - Building elements - In-situ measurement of thermal resistance and thermal transmittance", 1994.

-International organization for standardization. ISO 8990 "Thermal insulation - Determination of steady-state thermal transmission properties - Calibrated and guarded hot box", 1994.

- Simões, N.; Martins, S. (2010) "Caderno sobre Ensaios de Caracterização de Isolamentos Térmicos".

- Holman J.P. (2011-8^th edition) "Experimental Methods for Engineers", McGraw-Hill.