1. Energy characterization of buildings in polar climate: Case study of Gabriel de Castilla Antarctic station.
- Author
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Rodriguez-Soria, Beatriz, García-García, Miguel Ángel, and Rezeau, Adeline
- Abstract
[Display omitted] • Two modules were analyzed during Antarctic summer at Spanish research station. • Measured transmittances and infiltrations were excessively high, resulting in high energy consumption for heating. • Indoor air conditions were poor in both modules, particularly the CO 2 concentration. • Extreme weather conditions accelerated the degradation of insulating materials and sealants. • Energy efficiency standards are urgently needed to improve the carbon footprint of Antarctic bases. In this paper, we present the energy characterization of two habitable modules at the Spanish station "Gabriel de Castilla", located on Deception Island, Antarctica. The analysis includes profiles of energy consumption for space heating and domestic hot water, as well as indoor air conditions, which were all recorded during one month of Antarctic summer. Additionally, the measurement of walls' transmittance and air infiltrations, together with thermography analysis, enabled evaluating the conservation state of the buildings' envelope. Upon analyzing all this data, it is evident that there is potential to enhance the design of future modules, improving the thermal comfort while significantly reducing the energy consumption. This will contribute to decrease the logistics and environmental impacts of these research stations, crucial considerations in human activity on the Antarctic continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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