Sustainable aluminium systems

Abstract

In the present paper an analytical presentation of some popular aluminium systems that contribute to sustainability of structures is presented. Special emphasis has been given to the properties of aluminium while the influence of these systems in the overall performance of the structure regarding environment and economy is described. In particular characteristics of aluminium elements such as high reflectivity and recyclability and their role in life cycle analysis (LCA) are analyzed. The connections between energy efficiency and conservation of buildings and aluminium application are also discussed. Building applications such as curtain walls window frames and facade sheets are presented and thoroughly investigated considering their environmental and economic aspects. Furthermore many innovative techniques that use aluminium elements in collaboration with other systems in order to produce renewable energy such as solar panels and photovoltaics are introduced. Finally environmental innovations such as optimized ventilation mechanisms and light and shade management systems based on aluminium members are presented. © 2010 by the authors, licensee MDPI Basel Switzerland. © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.