Ph.D. candidate in Ingegneria Civile E Ambientale , 41st cycle (2025-2028)
Department of Architecture and Design (DAD)
Profile
PhD
Research topic
Multi-Functional Textile Fiber Composites for the Energy-Efficient Structural Retrofitting of Nearly-Zero Constructions
Tutors
Keywords
Biography
The integration of structural strengthening strategies with energy-related retrofitting solutions has been widely investigated in recent years, particularly in response to the increasing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. Textile Reinforced Mortar (TRM) systems have demonstrated strong potential for improving the structural performance of existing constructions, while thermal retrofitting approaches involving insulation materials and phase change materials have been explored to reduce energy consumption and enhance indoor thermal comfort.
Although considerable progress has been achieved in both areas, developing a balanced, efficient, and practically applicable multifunctional system remains a critical challenge. The introduction of phase change materials can influence the mechanical properties, durability, and bonding behavior of mortar composites. Achieving a balance between thermal functionality and structural reliability is therefore a key research objective.
The research investigates multifunctional textile fiber composite systems capable of simultaneously enhancing structural performance and thermal energy efficiency. The proposed work focuses on integrating phase change materials into textile-based retrofitting systems while preserving their mechanical integrity and long-term durability.
Phase change materials are attractive because they can absorb and release thermal energy during phase transitions, increasing the thermal inertia of buildings and reducing indoor temperature fluctuations. Integrating these materials into retrofitting composites could improve occupant comfort and reduce operational energy consumption without major modifications to existing structures.
A central aspect of the research is the study of material compatibility between textile reinforcements, mortar matrices, and phase change materials. Different incorporation methods may significantly affect both thermal and mechanical behavior. Particular attention is given to leakage prevention, environmental durability, interfacial bonding, and the long-term stability of the composite system.
The research also investigates the influence of textile reinforcements on the overall behavior of the composite. These materials offer different advantages in terms of strength, durability, thermal conductivity, sustainability, and cost. Understanding their interaction with thermal storage materials is essential for developing optimized multifunctional retrofitting solutions.
Beyond technical performance, the study emphasizes scalability and practical implementation. Many advanced materials demonstrate promising laboratory performance but remain difficult to apply in real construction scenarios due to high cost or complex installation procedures. For this reason, the research prioritizes highly available materials in construction and manufacturing, which are easily sourced and rapidly renewable, together with cost-effective retrofitting approaches compatible with existing construction practices.
The experimental work includes thermal and mechanical characterization of the developed composites. Thermal investigations will involve thermal conductivity, latent heat storage capacity, and thermal cycling behavior, while mechanical testing will evaluate tensile strength, cracking response.
Numerical modeling and simulation tools may also be used to study structural and thermal interactions within the composite system. Combining experimental and computational approaches will provide a more comprehensive understanding of multifunctional retrofitting behavior.
From a sustainability perspective, this research supports international efforts toward nearly-zero energy buildings, carbon reduction, and sustainable urban rehabilitation. Improving the thermal efficiency of existing buildings reduces operational energy demand, while extending structural service life helps minimize demolition waste and embodied carbon emissions.
The long-term objective of this work is to contribute to the development of integrated retrofitting systems that combine structural resilience, thermal efficiency, and practical applicability within a single solution. Through this research, we aim to bridge the gap between advanced material innovation and real engineering implementation while contributing to more sustainable and energy-efficient construction technologies.