Efficienza Energetica negli Edifici con un Approccio Multiscala

Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the transition to a low-carbon future, representing a fast and cost-effective strategy to reduce CO₂ emissions while enhancing energy security. The building sector, accounting for over one-third of global energy consumption, plays a critical role in achieving the “Net Zero Emissions by 2050” target. Improving the energy performance of buildings requires integrated strategies that combine innovative construction techniques, high-performance materials, efficient design solutions, and accurate assessment methods. This doctoral research investigates the topic of building energy efficiency through a multiscale approach, encompassing different levels of analysis progressing from the scale of the individual building component to that of the architectural element, and finally to the building in its entirety. At the component scale, the study explores the design and production of three-dimensional printed building blocks with optimized thermal properties, leveraging additive manufacturing to overcome geometric limitations of current construction processes and enhance thermal performance of the building component. At the architectural element scale, two analysis methods for assessing wall thermal transmittance, namely Heat Flux Meter and Infrared Thermography, are tested and compared, highlighting their applicability, advantages, and limitations. At the building scale, the research examines the role of Building Information Modeling in supporting energy-conscious design, enabling interoperability with energy simulation tools, the development of digital twins for monitoring and optimization, and the integration of renewable energy systems such as photovoltaics. The study combines theoretical analysis and experimental validation, ensuring rigorous and empirically robust results. The multiscale framework allows for a holistic understanding of thermal performance, considering both micro-level component behavior and macro-level building dynamics. Results demonstrate the potential of additive manufacturing and advanced measurement techniques in improving energy efficiency and provide insights into the practical integration of Building Information Modeling-based workflows in the design process. Overall, this research contributes to advancing sustainable construction technologies, offering strategies to reduce energy demand and CO₂ emissions, while supporting the digital transformation of the building industry. The findings provide guidance for future research, technology implementation, and policy development in the pursuit of high-performance, energy-efficient buildings.