Smart Insulation for Nearly Zero Energy Buildings

Adopting dry-assembled envelope technology solutions that integrate innovative materials to reduce the energy consumption of new and existing buildings is fundamental to promoting the energy transition processes necessary to achieve the decarbonisation targets set by the European Community for 2030. Among the most promising technologies developed in the last decade to reach this goal are platform frame systems, which can be used to build envelope components and entire modular housing units, adopting innovative processes linked to the concept of Industry 4.0 and the circular economy. These are prefabricated solutions that ensure good energy performance, also due to the possibility of integrating innovative and low environmental impact materials in their stratigraphies, such as reflective insulators, to increase the envelope’s thermo-hygrometric properties, reducing consumption for air conditioning throughout the year. The nZEM(Nearly Zero Energy Module) project, funded by the Tuscany Region within the scope of the POR CREO 2020–2024 tender notice, is part of this line of research. The project was developed by a consortium of research organisations and companies that worked together to improve and prototype a platform frame modular housing unit that integrates innovative envelope and system technological solutions and was created to meet various functional and technical-regulatory requirements (energy saving and efficiency, indoor comfort, accessibility, structural safety) in compliance with environmental compatibility.