ECO-SEE
France, Germany, India, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom
Partners
Acconia, BCP, BRE, Claytec, Environment Park, Kronospan, Fraunhofer, Greenovate ! Europe, IIT Delhi, Skanska Group, Tecnalia,University of Aveiro, University of Bath, University of Bangor, Wood Technology Institute
Contact
João António Labrincha
Materials and Ceramics Engineering
Department & CICECO
University of Aveiro
3810-193 Aveiro
E. jal@ua.pt
T. +351 234 370 250
Visit: www.eco-see.eu
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The ECO-SEE project aims to address an emerging health problem associated with modern low- carbon buildings. Modern buildings have been developed to be very airtight, improving their energy efficiency and reducing their carbon footprint. However, these sealed environments have created unexpected side effects, with research showing that a build-up of potentially harmful chemicals in the air is potentially causing negative impacts on occupants.
The project will develop highly insulated wall panels, using novel chemical processes to enhance the capacity of building materials to capture VOCs. It will also develop highly novel photocatalytic coatings using nanoparticles, which will decompose harmful chemicals when exposed to sunlight, preventing them from being released into the air.
The objective of the project is to deliver products with at least 15% lower embodied energy than traditional construction materials, with at least 20% longer expected lifespan, and for at least 20% lower build costs. By making better products at a lower price the research group can create a cost effective solution with the potential for real market impact.
These objectives will be achieved by ensuring that the research activities as well as the proof of concept testing, demonstration and evaluation of the ECO-SEE wall panels in large-scale test cells, field trials and pilot building projects is conducted methodologically over the course of the 4 years.
PROJECT GOALS
Innovative eco-building materials that will address poor air quality, while also radically improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
