Head of research group: Ruut Hannele Peuhkuri

Our research

The research group has a special focus on ensuring correct construction techniques both in new uses of known materials and in the use of new materials. This applies to both new construction and renovation.

The research group works to find robust solutions that can increase the sustainability of construction, for example by increasing the use of wood and other renewable materials. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of products made from recycled materials are examined, without compromising durability.

The research group examines the durability of various climate envelope solutions, including whether the existing requirements for building parts and components are sufficient in the future, not least in respect to the expected climate changes. In this context, the group also works to uncover which factors are important for the lifespan of a building or a part of a building and to what extent it is controlled by conditions other than purely constructional ones.

The air tightness of the building envelope has a special focus, and the group is investigating new methods of sealing as well as the possibilities of using materials with other hygrothermal properties than traditional ones.

As external insulation of existing buildings is not always possible, due to their preservation worthy appearance, work is being done to determine the conditions for when a building can be internally insulated and how this can be done in a moisture safe way.

The research group creates knowledge that helps to ensure and improve the indoor climate and the well-being, comfort and health of building users, including acoustic quality but especially conditions where moisture plays a role.

The research group also works on the role of building regulations and other regulatory requirements for innovation in construction and the way buildings are designed.

Research focus

Need for new knowledge

There are several unresolved issues in designing buildings so that they meet today's requirements for performance, comfort, safety and climate impact, etc. without the risk of problems, such as moisture and poor indoor climate. How do you design new buildings so that they are prepared for possible future changes? A special aspect is to prepare new buildings and the materials they contain for future reuse in other buildings.

Similar - and often more difficult - problems arise when renovating existing buildings, because one is 'bound' by the existing conditions. Renovation must ensure that the buildings remain attractive, with satisfactory performance, e.g. in terms of sound, indoor climate and personal safety. How do we retrofit and incorporate new materials, components and innovative solutions into existing structures without failing?

At the same time, there is still a great need for knowledge about preventing construction failures, which are estimated to cost 15-20 billion DKK per year, as well as a need to propose sustainable construction solutions to minimize failures.

Cooperation

The research group collaborates with the building and housing sector and building authorities to develop building technology solutions that can be applied in practice and that meet the functional requirements of building legislation. The group also collaborates with research institutions, associations and companies, including in EU-funded projects, to collect and employ experience and research results internationally.

Application

The research group's knowledge is translated into practice to a significant extent, partly through SBi instructions, which are part of the 'general technical common property', partly through continuing and further education of professionals in BUILD courses and the Master in Building Physics, and partly through the bachelor's and master's degree programs in Sustainable Building Processes. The group also shares knowledge internationally through collaboration, scientific articles and conference presentations. Furthermore, the group develops testing methods, contributes to product development and documents the performance of building materials and components.