In the ever-evolving landscape of construction technology, a groundbreaking innovation is set to revolutionize the way we think about building envelopes. Researchers at the Universidade da Coruña’s ETS Arquitectura have developed a patented, extruded aluminum panel system called Walluminium, which promises to redefine structural design, energy efficiency, and sustainability in low-rise constructions.
At the heart of this innovation is Carolina Meire, the lead author of the study published in the journal ‘Informes de la Construccion’ (Construction Reports). Meire and her team have engineered a system that serves three critical functions: it acts as a structural element, forming load-bearing walls; it functions as a ventilated facade and roof; and it captures solar energy. This triple functionality makes Walluminium a game-changer in the construction industry, particularly for modular and passive housing.
The journey of Walluminium began with the analysis of precursor systems and an initial design, which was tested in a prototype construction. “The initial prototype demonstrated the feasibility of integrating these three functions into a single panel,” Meire explained. “However, we knew we could optimize the design for better performance and adaptability.”
The optimized design, patented in 2020, has proven to be a significant leap forward. The panel’s industrialization allows for consistent quality and reduced construction time, while its adaptability ensures it can be used in a variety of building designs. Moreover, the system has been certified as a Passivhaus component, a standard for energy-efficient buildings that require minimal heating and cooling.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the demand for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings grows, Walluminium offers a viable solution. By integrating solar capture into the building envelope, it reduces the need for separate solar panels, saving space and costs. Furthermore, the ventilated facade improves insulation, reducing heating and cooling demands.
Meire envisions a future where Walluminium becomes a standard in modular and passive housing. “This system eliminates many of the uncertainties in passive construction,” she said. “It provides a reliable, industrialized solution that can be easily adapted to different designs.”
The commercial impact of this innovation could be substantial. Construction companies could see reduced build times and costs, while homeowners and tenants benefit from lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. The energy sector could also see a shift, with a greater emphasis on integrated, building-level energy solutions.
As the construction industry continues to seek innovative solutions to meet sustainability goals, Walluminium stands out as a beacon of progress. With its unique combination of structural integrity, energy efficiency, and adaptability, it is poised to shape the future of low-rise construction. The research, detailed in the journal ‘Informes de la Construccion’ (Construction Reports), marks a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable, efficient, and adaptable building solutions. The future of construction is here, and it’s made of aluminum.
