Pathways to Net Zero Energy for Engineered Wood Multi-storey Buildings in Australian Tropical and Sub-Tropical Climates [eWoodZEB]

This project takes evidence-based development approach, through simulation and experimental testing of optimised construction systems and details to improve the environmental performance of multi-storey CLT buildings in tropical and sub- tropical climates, with focus on their hygro-thermal behaviour and airtightness.

Performance requirements are set to achieve net zero energy use, in accordance with relevant Australian and international standards, and green rating tools. This implies innovative solutions for insulation, thermal bridging and air-tightness. This research project aims to demonstrate the superior holistic performance, economic advantages, and reduced environmental impact of net zero energy buildings (ZEB) that employ optimised CLT solutions.
 

Research Showcase

Published Articles

The Fifth Estate - Passive solar design versus Passive House: why we need both for healthy homes in Queensland

Dr Paola Leardini describes the essential elements of a comfortable house for the subtropics. “Passive House” works in all climates: hot, cold, humid and dry. 

Sustainability, Passivhaus and Durability - PTEC Part 1

WoodSolutions TimberTalks Series - The conversations were taken at the Pacific Timber Engineering Conference (PTEC 2019) held in Brisbane in July.  4.15 Marcus Strang from the University of Queensland and Grun Consulting on Passivhaus and engineered wood   6.40 Andrea Stocchero from Scion on sustainability opportunities of timber   12.10 Eugenia Gasparri from the University of Sydney on Unitised Timber Envelopes   16.00 Geoff Stringer from the University of Queensland on durability

Peer-reviewed Conference Papers

23rd Passive House Conference, Gaobeidien, China 

The International Passive House Conference is to be held in Gaobeidien, China and will include the presentation of a paper by Marcus Strang and Dr Paola Leardini on the material benefits and risks of CLT for construction to Passive House Standard in tropical climates. The presentation highlights the effects of the adhesives and the design changes on a building level required to meet the rigorous Passive House Standard. The peer-reviewed conference paper can be viewed by clicking the image below.

Presentations

5th Pacific Timber Engineering Conference (PTEC 2019), Brisbane, Australia

Marcus Strang presented at PTEC 2019 on the hygrothermal performance of engineered wood multi-story buildings in Australian tropical and subtropical climates highlighting a framework for modelling durable assembly designs. The conference abstract can be viewed by clicking the image below.

Timber, a material with a bundle of challenges, all worth it

Chief Investigator - Dr Paola Leardini was a panellist at the recent Brisbane Open House Event - Tall Timber Buildings & Taking on Climate Change. This event was open to the public and displayed 25 King Street, which is inspired by the environmental benefits and versatility of timber and showcases timber from roof to floor. The 9-storey plus ground superstructure utilises a combination of revolutionary engineered Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and glulam (glue laminated timber). It is the tallest timber office building in Australia, if not the world.

Webinar- 23rd International Passive House Conference Featured Presentation - Dec 2019

The Passive House Institute showcases a presentation from the 23rd International Passive House Conference in China focussing on the area of sustainability. Marcus Strang, of the University of Queensland, presents his paper: Material Benefits and Risks of Cross Laminated Timber for Passive House Construction in Subtropical Climates. 

ARC Future Timber Hub Presentation – May 2020

Marcus Strang presents his research to the ARC Future Timber Hub attendees, highlighting updates to the energy and hygrothermal simulation studies.