JSR

The use of thermal insulation in the construction of homes and buildings is essential to create efficient and sustainable living spaces. These materials regulate heat flow, improving energy efficiency in construction. In Ecuador, buildings are mainly based on reinforced concrete, which offers strength and construction speed, but this system has a high thermal conductivity, thus increasing energy consumption due to the air conditioning system. This study aims to explore in depth the benefits and challenges associated with the integration of recycled tire rubber as a key component in thermal insulation systems for reinforced concrete buildings. A thermal conductivity test was conducted comparing reinforced concrete with the proposed rubber insulation, where the proposal generated a 62.5% reduction in the thermal conductivity coefficient. In the second part, temperatures were monitored in rooms built with reinforced concrete, one of which was insulated with 2 cm of rubber on the east and west walls. The insulation generated a 40.4% reduction in heat and a 13.32% saving in the energy consumption of the air conditioning system. These results highlight the effectiveness of rubber as a thermal insulator to mitigate the thermal conductivity of reinforced concrete, contributing significantly to energy efficiency in construction. The implementation of this approach can promote more sustainable and economically viable constructions.

thermal insulation in buildings; energy efficiency; reduction of CO₂ emissions