Thermal performance and environmental impact of a wood frame wall enhanced with clay-based plaster: an experimental and simulation analysis

Abstract

This study evaluates the thermal performance and environmental impact of wooden frame walls with clay-based plaster by using the complementary properties of both materials. Clay's moderate density and high thermal capacity enhance the thermal behaviour of wood structures, making it a valuable addition to lightweight constructions. At the material scale, the thermal properties of clay-based plaster were experimentally characterized and integrated into thermal dynamic simulations to assess the influence of internal and external wall configurations on the indoor temperature in the framework of overheating in summer. A life cycle assessment was conducted to compare the environmental impact of three walls: one made of concrete, a wooden frame wall, and another using wood frame wall with clay-based plaster.