Mono- and Multi-Objective CFD Optimization of Graded Foam-Filled Channels.

Graded foam-filled channels are a very promising solution for improving the thermal performance of heat sinks because of their customized structures that leave large amounts of room for heat transfer enhancement. Accordingly, this paper proposes a comprehensive optimization framework to address the design of such components, which are subjected to a uniform heat flux boundary condition. The graded foam is achieved by parameterizing the spatial distributions of porosity and/or Pores Per Inch (PPI).

Experimental Evaluation of the Mechanical Strengths and the Thermal Conductivity of GGBFS and Silica Fume Based Alkali-Activated Concrete.

Alkali-activated concrete (AAC) could be a solution to use a cement-less binder and recycled materials for producing concrete reducing the carbon dioxide emission and the demand for raw materials, respectively. In addition to the environmental aspect, AACs can achieve mechanical characteristics higher than those of ordinary Portland concrete (OPC) but also an improvement of the thermal insulation capacity. Despite the positive results available in the scientific literature, the use of AACs in construction practice is still limited mainly due to the absence of codification for the mix design and consequently of specific design rules.

Assessment of Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Hemp-Lime Mortar.

The use of renewable and natural materials characterized by the low environmental impact is nowadays a key issue for the sustainable development of the construction industry. For this reason, the interest for natural fibers, to be used as reinforcement in composites as an alternative to other fibers, is continuously growing. In this paper, the use of hemp for reinforcing lime mortar used as plaster is considered with a multidisciplinary approach, taking into consideration the structural and thermal performance.