PROJECTS

Framework

In the construction market, there is an alarming shortage of skilled and available labour for several activities, compromising current demand needs, as well as the assurance of future execution and quality, and consequently, the competitiveness of companies in this sector. In the specific case of external thermal insulation systems, which plays a crucial role in the energy rehabilitation of buildings, this problem is exacerbated due to the reliance on labour qualification and the level of detail required in its application. Therefore, it is necessary to propose new thermal and energy rehabilitation system for buildings, expanding the scope of rehabilitation actions using external thermal insulation, with innovative solutions based on digital methods for measurement, production and installation.

Objectives

This project aims to develop a prefabricated thermal insulation panel system for external application on building envelopes. Unlike traditional ETICS systems, this solution will consist of a prefabricated multilayer panel with specific fastening elements that will enable simple and quick installation, easily adapting to the particularities and requirements of buildings while minimising cutting operations and, consequently, reducing on-site waste production. Additionally, the project seeks to digitalise processes related to geometry acquisition, manufacturing, and project planning.

Project activities and expected results

A1 - Identification of requirements and key constraints for solution development

The specific objective of this activity is to identify all requirements and constraints related to the development of the solution. The tasks to be carried out include identifying applicable legal requirements, characterising on-site constraints, defining desired materials and functionalities, and defining the concept of the innovative insulation system.

A2 - Development of the prefabricated external insulation system

This activity aims to develop the multilayer thermal insulation panel solution for external application. At this stage, the focus will be on defining the desired technical properties, determining the technical means for the system's prefabrication, establishing the application methodology on-site, and developing and characterising the material to be applied on the back of the insulation panels along with their corresponding connections. Additionally, technical drawings for prefabrication will be prepared. This activity will conclude with the optimisation and characterisation of the new thermal insulation panel in terms of hygrothermal, acoustic, and mechanical performance.

A3 – Development of system components

The objective of this activity is to develop the components of the thermal insulation system, namely the connectors to fix the insulation to the substrate with adjustable capability along the x, y, and z axes, as well as solutions for singular elements. R&D activities will be supported by prototyping, laboratory testing, and numerical simulations to assess and optimise the mechanical and thermal performance of the system.

A4 - Definition of integration methodology and process optimisation

This activity aims to select and define a methodology for acquiring all geometric and dimensional information of the building to be renovated, optimising the prefabrication of the insulation system to be applied. The main premises include maximising the compatibility between material prefabrication and its final on-site application while minimising waste and optimising assembly time. Thus, it is crucial to select the most versatile and suitable methodology from existing and feasible options that aligns with the innovative concept of insulation system prefabrication and offers the best cost-benefit ratio. This activity is particularly important as it directly impacts the system’s compatibility with the building, especially in addressing singular elements, ensuring fast execution, and minimising on-site material waste.

A5 - Application and validation of the system (solution + components) in laboratory and real-world environments

The objective of this activity is the final validation of the entire system (solution + components). To achieve this, the developed system will be applied to full-scale prototypes for assessment and validation in a laboratory environment. Additionally, the system will be tested in a real-world rehabilitation project, where its overall performance and effectiveness will be evaluated. This activity also includes the development of final technical drawings and detailed BIM models, as well as an assessment of the economic and financial feasibility of scaling up the product. Furthermore, an application guide will be developed to support the implementation process.

A6 – Promotion, dissemination and divulgation of results

This activity aims to carry out tasks related to the dissemination and communication of the results of the 2ndSkin project. This will be achieved through the consortium companies' websites, newsletters, videos, participation in national and international conferences, publication of scientific papers, organisation of workshops, presence at "open days," technical fairs, and other relevant events.

A7 - Technical project management

This activity encompasses tasks related to the technical management of the project.