Long term energy efficiency of non-conventional building systems: Use of Polyblocks in improving thermal performance

Buildings' energy efficiency requirements in South Africa are depicted in SANS 204 and SANS 10 400 XA. The thermal performance of buildings is usually assessed by determining the thermal resistance of the building envelope. Although masonry walls have been used for decades, their thermal performance is questionable because they do not meet the minimum requirements. This study investigates the thermal performance of the Polyblock by applying Fourier's one dimensional heat equation to calculate the thermal conductivity of the structure, then establish a connection between the heat and the energy requirements. Results indicated that the thermal resistance of the Polyblock was higher than of the masonry wall, therefore suggesting it offers better thermal comfort.