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2025 Vol.16, Issue 3 Preview Page

General Article

Enhancing energy efficiency in sustainable construction: A comparative study of hemp concrete, polystyrene concrete, and conventional concrete
Ali Chikhi1*
,
Malek Hadji2
,
Azeddine Belhamri3
1Ph.D, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Ferhat Abbas University Setif 1, Algeria
2Ph.D, Laboratory of Climatic Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Constantine 1 University, Algeria
3Professor, Laboratory of Climatic Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Constantine 1 University, Algeria
*Corresponding Author
30 September 2025. pp. 343-354
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Abstract

The transition to sustainable construction materials is a critical pathway for reducing global energy consumption and mitigating climate change. This study evaluates the potential of hemp concrete and polystyrene concrete as energy-efficient alternatives to conventional concrete. Their hygrothermal performance was assessed through detailed numerical simulations under identical climatic conditions, using a physical model of coupled heat and moisture transfer to capture their thermophysical behavior. The findings are compelling: hemp concrete can reduce heat loss through walls by up to 78%, while polystyrene concrete achieves savings of approximately 37%. Beyond thermal performance, hemp concrete exhibits outstanding moisture-regulating capacity, enhancing indoor comfort and preventing excessive humidity. Nevertheless, its mechanical strength remains insufficient for load-bearing structures. Polystyrene concrete, though less effective in thermal reduction, offers distinct advantages in terms of lightweight characteristics and ease of application. Collectively, these materials have the capacity to significantly enhance building energy efficiency, improve occupant well-being, and lower heating and cooling demands—benefits that can translate into tangible operational cost reductions. By highlighting their environmental relevance and economic potential, this research advocates for the broader adoption of hemp and polystyrene concrete in sustainable, non-structural applications, contributing to the evolution of green architecture.

Keywords
hemp concrete
polystyrene concrete
conventional concrete
sustainable construction
energy savings
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Information
  • Publisher :Sustainable Building Research Center (ERC) Innovative Durable Building and Infrastructure Research Center
  • Publisher(Ko) :건설구조물 내구성혁신 연구센터
  • Journal Title :International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology and Urban Development
  • Volume : 16
  • No :3
  • Pages :343-354
  • Received Date : 2025-03-01
  • Accepted Date : 2025-08-19
  • DOI :https://doi.org/10.22712/susb.20250022
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