Improving the thermal capacity of natural stone used in residential buildings (Case of Tébessa North-Eastern Algeria)

Abstract

This research topic is part of the improvement of the living environment of the inhabitants and focuses in particular on the impact of the thermal characterization of natural stone used in the construction of individual housing in Tébessa on thermal comfort. It was realized that it was possible to ensure a good level of comfort, and that through the use of natural stone known by its thermal performance that allow to regulate the conditions of indoor environments (temperature and humidity) and thus ensure the comfort of occupants. Therefore, our thesis focuses on the improvement of the energy performance of the house by improving the thermo-physical characteristics and resistance to different external conditions (humidity, rain, wind, temperature variation) in the semi-arid climate context. This study aims to evaluate and optimize the effect of interactions between the harsh climatic conditions and the properties of natural stone on the thermal inertia and then on the thermal performance of old residential buildings. As the type of natural building stone differs, its thermo-physical components differ; therefore, its interaction with environmental factors varies. For this purpose, an experimental measurement was carried out on many buildings with different orientations in the semi-arid climate, validated by a simulation carried out by the software "EnergyPlus 9.3". The results showed that the significant difference in the outdoor temperature between day and night has an influence on the thermo-physical properties of natural stones used in construction. On the other hand, an experimental study was conducted in the laboratory on samples of natural stones used in construction in Tébessa, to determine their thermo-physical properties and assess the impact of factors of the semi-arid climate on their hygrothermal performance. The results showed that the components of the stone affected by the effect of thermal shock are eroded over time, then they are saturated with water and affect the coefficient of thermal conductivity of the stone, however, this directly affects the indoor thermal comfort and thermal performance of the building on the one hand. On the other hand, the high percentage of indoor relative humidity and the lack of natural ventilation have a significant influence on the ambient temperature values recorded. The improvement of the thermo-physical properties of natural stone by thermal correction enhances its thermal performance. Therefore, ensure the improvement of the thermal performance of the buildings studied and the adaptation of natural stone buildings built in Tébessa to its context to design sustainable housing that meets the requirements of the lifestyle in terms of comfort and livability in its environment.