Research Amaryllis Audenaert

Abstract

The aim of BIOBUILD project is to develop and demonstrate fully bio-based building materials with thermal storage function that can replace high environmental footprint products. Our solution demonstrates functional incorporation of bio-based phase change materials (bioPCMs) into solid wood and wood fibres bound by plant oil resins, lignin, or fungal mycelia to produce novel bio-composite building materials with significantly improved thermal properties. The novel materials possess a high multifunctional performance, meet requirements for sustainable "green" production, and ensure end-of-life options and recycling. Environmental and social impacts and benefits are fully integrated into the life-cycle perspective.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By 2050, urban areas are expected to host 70% of the global population, posing both challenges and opportunities. Currently, cities are responsible for more than 60% of global energy consumption and a staggering 70% of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change. As urbanization continues to accelerate, there is an urgent need for cities and buildings to improve their environmental performance. This necessitates collaborative efforts among policymakers, building stakeholders, and citizens to advance mitigation and adaptation strategies tailored to each city's unique context. Efforts towards achieving climate-neutral cities are underway, driven by technological advancements, ambitious emission reduction goals, the phase-out of fossil fuels, and national renovation policies. However, significant knowledge gaps persist, particularly in understanding how urban-level mitigation measures impact indoor environmental quality in buildings and how homeowners' actions affect the broader urban climate. The CHIASMUS project aims to address these challenges by focusing on three key research questions: defining an appropriate spatial resolution for urban climate and building energy data, assessing uncertainties in district-and-building energy models, and formulating locally-informed mitigation and adaptation strategies. Ultimately, the project seeks to contribute to the creation of sustainable and resilient cities that can effectively tackle the complex challenges posed by climate change in the future.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Nowadays a vast number of concrete structures are approaching the end of their expected service life. The need for sustainable rehabilitation (maintenance and repair) is urgent and due to the expected deterioration of buildings and civil structures, there will be a great need for preventive and/or curative interventions in the near future. More than 50 % of the damage to reinforced concrete structures is linked to reinforcement corrosion, which can affect the durability of the structure and the residual load-carrying capacity. With the European transition towards a circular economy and the sustainable development goals in mind, it is important to deviate from considering only the technical requirements and initial costs during the design. Therefore, the environmental impact and financial costs over the entire life cycle and the intended service life extension need to be considered. To assess the durability of concrete structures and interventions throughout their life cycle, life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) can be applied. For this reason, the general research objective of this study is to economically and environmentally optimize the intervention strategy for preventive maintenance and curative repair of corrosion-damaged reinforced concrete structures, based on a multi-criteria framework with the incorporation of LCA and LCCA. The optimization framework could be used by the industry for new structures as well as for existing structures.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Craeye Bart
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Campine Basin is a unique geological hotspot, that is increasingly being targeted to achieve energy security and environmental objectives. However, subsurface space is limited and competition between subsurface usages is increasing. To review policies for planning and managing potential resource interactions (either adverse or beneficial) and to set priorities if needed, it is key to create methods for a detailed hydrogeological characterization of these subsurface interactions, accounting for associated above-ground social, environmental, and economic impacts. Therefore, we unite expertise of (inter)national hydrogeological research units to develop dynamic, loosely coupled hydrogeological models that allow for large scale simulations, while remaining accurate for a single activity, and that are able to handle uncertain geological contexts. In addition, we will integrate this innovative hydrogeological method to advanced methods of Environmental Economics and Social Sciences to create an understanding about (i) the indicators for sustainable subsurface development, (ii) above-ground environmental, economic, and social impacts, (iii) and how to make model results transparent. These methods will allow to determine threshold values that must be met to respect subsurface, environmental, economic, and social criteria for the sustainable management of geological resources in Belgium and beyond. Stakeholders from the public and private sector as well as local communities are involved in the research activities to better understand their perception on the sustainable and just development of the subsurface. Knowledge transfer tools tailored to stakeholders' needs will be created allowing them (i) to come to a structural vision on the sustainable development of the Campine basin, (ii) to manage and regulate interacting subsurface activities for the long-term, and (iii) to match subsurface use with aboveground sustainability objectives.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Bergmans Anne
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

One of the core ideas of the circular economy is that technological development can help increase material efficiency, but do such emerging technologies really reduce primary resource consumption and associated environmental impact or do adverse indirect and rebound effects occur? To date, there is a clear methodological knowledge gap on how to assess such emerging technologies and their estimated environmental impact in a broader economic context, considering expectations regarding macroeconomic trends. In addition, endogenizing material feedback loops will be fundamental to account for unwanted indirect and rebound effects of circular strategies. To overcome this limitation, I aim to develop an integrated quantitative method to drive technological progress in a prospective context, by bridging (bottom-up) technology-specific and (top-down) comprehensive modeling approaches into a dynamic value chain equilibrium model. This model will then be linked with prospective LCA background databases. The integrated model will be applied to the European value chain of the woodworking sector. This is a key sector for improving a more sustainable building stock and has great potential for cascading, meaning the inclusion of feedback loops is essential to draw sound conclusions. For validation, the dynamic model will be extended with stochastic properties to gain insight into the magnitude of the uncertainties and to increase the robustness of the results.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Fellow: Buyle Matthias

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In a nutshell, the project aims to provide a feasible and innovative renovation solution for social housing, with the goal of preparing these homes for 2050 in the most efficient manner possible. The solution aims to disconnect these homes from fossil fuels and ensure that they are robust enough to meet future challenges in energy and distribution networks. The project also adopts a holistic approach, constantly considering three perspectives throughout the project's lifecycle: what is good for the residents, what is good for the climate, and what is good for the financial stability of social housing providers. The ultimate goal of the project is to offer a concrete, affordable, and scalable solution. During the project, the solution will be developed, implemented, tested, and the real-world performance will be monitored and optimized throughout its lifecycle. In close collaboration with residents and relevant stakeholders, efforts will be made to explore how the solution can be replicated on a larger scale.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

About 35% of all waste in Flanders comes from construction and demolition activities. However, that waste often contains a large proportion of reusable materials. The project (GEO-CBE) aims to develop an integrated digital tool to geolocalise construction and demolition waste (CDW) and its flows. We aim to identify the spatial, economic and environmental parameters in order to recognise the optimal location of temporary, permanent, or even movable hubs for the recycling of these building materials. In the actual moment of material scarcity and shortages, constraints and high material prices, in addition to geopolitical and carbon reduction targets faced by Flanders and Europe, urgent research is needed on the reuse and recycling of CDW. Hence, there is an urgency to understand the network of stock, construction, and demolition waste flows, in order to elaborate a network of temporary and permanent locations - Circular Hubs (CHs) - to collect, store and redistribute waste as secondary raw materials. Sustainable and future-proof waste management systems must respond to the growing demand for real circular systemic solutions, with the construction sector in Flanders offering a great deal of potential. The increasing demand for housing, combined with increasingly higher standards for (life) quality, energy, and the environment, has led to a drastic increase in the demand for building materials (e.g. wood, concrete, and steel). Therefore, within the contemporary debate on resource scarcity and waste recycling in cities, circularity as an approach to reduce waste is gaining large interest. However, local stakeholders, policymakers, large developer companies, and companies in the construction and demolition business lack knowledge of CDW fluxes and stock, and miss the appropriate tools to adopt their construction and demolition processes. How can material from construction and demolition activities become available and, instead of waste, be understood as a resource for urban projects? The built environment with high material concentrations (stocks) and many construction and demolition activities are often promising for recycling CDW. However, where and how to develop CHs remains to be answered. GEO-CBE project aims to address these needs by developing an integrated digital tool to support stakeholders in the construction and demolition sector. In particular, the project has three key objectives: 1. to develop a platform to visualize a spatial material flow analysis of three construction and demolition waste streams namely wood, concrete, and steel in Flanders, in 2020-2021-2022. 2. based on spatial material flow analysis results, develop different scenarios to identify possible locations and parameters to implement different types of hubs to store, recycle, and reuse CDW. 3. develop an environmental impact assessment to evaluate the performance of different scenarios and identify the best solutions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Acker Maarten
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias
• Co-promoter: Furlan Cecilia

Research team(s)

• Research Group for Urban Development

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main objective of this project is to increase the sustainability of buildings through advanced digitalization throughout the entire lifecycle of the building, including and with a considerable focus on the operational phase. The service platform leverages the expertise and experience of the research groups M4S and EMIB in the field of digital technologies and sustainability analyses in the construction sector. The platform can support facility managers and the construction sector in general in making the right choices regarding materials, maintenance, repairs, and technical management. The project will align and connect the Building Information Management (BIM) data pipeline with predictive and simulation needs during the operational phase of the building. Based on these predictions and simulations, maintenance will be optimized to reduce the financial and ecological footprint of the building. The platform also strongly emphasizes change management to determine how the technologies fit within the economic reality of the sector and to facilitate the step towards innovation from a clear value creation perspective. This vision is shared by the industry association Embuild Flanders, which is eager to focus on the digitalization in construction. They found out that in many building projects, a BIM model was established during the design and construction phase of a building, but that it is often not utilized or underutilized during the exploitation phase of a building. Embuild Flanders indicates that during the establishment of such BIM models, the ultimate users or managers of these buildings are often not taken into account, resulting in it often not meeting the needs of these stakeholders. There is also increasing interest in BIM within the facility management domain, but the limited applicability due to insufficient data remains a challenge. Therefore, it is necessary to bridge the gap between the different stakeholders during the various life cycle phases of a building, a role that the BIM4SIM service platform is eager to take on. This project has been developed in close collaboration with Embuild Flanders, the trade organization of the construction sector, and is supported by its Director General, Marc Dillen.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Hellinckx Peter
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Meysman Jasmine

Research team(s)

• Modelling for Sustainability (M4S)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The central mission of the service platform B.Cycle is to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable construction sector and this by providing scientifically sound and tailored made decision support. Key elements are incorporating a life-cycle perspective, including future oriented assessment techniques and developing innovative circular business models to steer optimization and innovation trajectories. To unlock the full potential of any innovation effort, it is crucial to provide quantitative information as early as possible during the development process. More specific, B.Cycle offers expertise to support such trajectories in a holistic way through objective quantitative information on the environmental impact and cost of a product, process or service based on life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analyses (LCCA). The strength of B.Cycle is the fundamental knowledge of applying LCA and LCCA at low TRL applications, which maximizes the benefits after upscaling to an industrial scale at a low development cost. B.Cycle explicitly targets inquiries from the field for process optimization or innovation, where conventional consultant agencies mainly focus on certifying products that are already available on the market. In order to maximize the valorization potential of B.Cycle's expertise, both short-term hotspot analyses as well as more thorough and ambitious long-term trajectories will be offered. The short-term projects are relevant for lowering the barrier for companies to make a first step. However, the unique knowledge of B.Cycle can be used to its fullest extent in the more ambitious trajectories, which in turn can lead to a greater added value for society. The fundamental knowledge of prospective sustainability assessment is B.Cycle's greatest asset and this financial IOF support creates the opportunity to transfer this knowledge to the construction sector. By setting up a central structure to safeguard the scientific quality and at the same time increasing B.Cycle's visibility, the opportunity will be created to set up new collaborations and generate revenues beyond conventional academic funding channels.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias
• Co-promoter: Meysman Jasmine

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Knowledge gap: assessing the potential social impact of large scale industrial activity, particularly in a planning stage remains a huge challenge, in spite of a vast and growing literature on Social Impact Assessment (SIA) or Social Life Cycle Analysis (SLCA), and continuous and expanding efforts to develop a standardized methodology comparable to environmental Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) (Alomoto et al., 2022). This challenge becomes even bigger in relation to deep subsurface activity, as the link to society is less visible. Attempts to develop generic key social categories and indicators for particular technologies (e.g. Rafiaani et al. (2020) for CCUS) tend to focus on socio-economic indicators such as employment impact, or public health indicators, strongly related to environmental impact indicators. This is partly due to the relatively easy measurability of such indicators, as compared to less tangible and more qualitative issues, such as social capital or cohesion. Objective: we will develop a framework for qualitative social impact analysis as a tool for identifying pathways for impacting (positively or negatively) the social fabric and amenity value of affected communities as plans and projects for subsurface activities develop. Rather than explicitly weighing and predicting these impact, such a framework aims to raise awareness of the evolutive process of the mutual shaping of large scale subsurface projects and their social environment on the surface, and to provide guidance on how to assure a 'just' subsurface policy and planning culture. Task 1: Literature study to collect possible indicators and methods for assessing social impact through stakeholder engagement and pluralistic value judgements with environmental justice as a leading framework. Task 2 Stakeholder mapping: (a) identify relevant actors and potentially affected groups; as well as (b) their perceptions and concerns vis-à-vis potential subsurface activities in their environment; and (c) their interest in and needs regarding participation in the related decisionmaking process [focus on Recognition Justice].

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Bergmans Anne

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Advanced Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) are increasingly being implemented in residential buildings. In general, these smart technologies contribute to a healthy and comfortable indoor environment, while they also beneficially affect the energy performance of the building. In order to support design and investment decisions in relation to BACS, there is a need to reliably assess their performance during the early design stages. Current methods available to designers and investors are either highly complex dynamic energy simulations, either simplified factor-based methods which have a low reliability as they do not take into account contextual parameters, nor provide insights on comfort perception and cost-effectiveness. The aim of this project is to investigate how and to what extent the influence of the building design features, the installation characteristics, its occupants and its context should be incorporated in a combined performance assessment for energy, thermal comfort and economic performance of BACS in residential design applications. A proof-of-concept methodology for such an assessment will be developed using dynamic Building Energy Performance Simulations (BEPS) and life cycle cost analysis. As part of this analysis, the possibilities to implement BACS more realistic in BEPS will be explored. The feasibility of this approach will be evaluated for eight Belgian case studies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn
• Fellow: Van Thillo Lotte

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Within this PWO project, DUBiT, in collaboration with Sanacon and EMIB+DUeL (University of Antwerp) is developing a hands-on practical guidance and training on the use, design and installation of a cathodic protection system for the lifetime extension of existing concrete structures. The need for sustainable repair techniques, long-term vision and adequate spending of the renovation budget is essential. Within this project, existing expertise will be strengthened through consultation with the field, qualitative market research inventory of existing cases and experimental research on a laboratory scale. An actual KB protection system on the campus in Aalst will serve as a demo set-up forming part of a unique KB course offered by Odisee in Belgium.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Denys Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Craeye Bart

Research team(s)

• Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to works towards the delivery of two valorisable entities: the assessment methodology for BACS design and the underlying database containing energy performance data, economic and technical BACS information. In the B.CLIC research project the first important steps will be taken towards a marketable product. The research team envisions four main routes towards valorisation: followon research through bilateral R&D with the industry, consultancy services, a decision support tool and a scientific database.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Meysman Jasmine
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Both international research and research at UAntwerpen (AIRbezen/strawbAIRies/CurieuzeNeuzen) have shown that our outdoor air quality, especially in urban areas, often leaves much to be desired. We breathe this unfiltered air every day, not only outside but often also inside our buildings. As traffic is a major source of this problem, it is not surprising that increased concentrations of pollutants and harmful particulate matter are measured along roads. In addition to the use of new means of transport, efficient local capture and purification, close to the road, can therefore offer a solution to control the situation and prevent further spread. At TU Eindhoven, a study was recently carried out in which the concentration of fine particulate matter in the outside air was removed by means of fine dust extractors. In Belgium, an innovative "Clean Air" concept was developed by BESIX for active purification of outdoor air using moss filters. Although the operation and potential of both technologies has been demonstrated, there are no practical implementations other than pilot plants, because the investment is not yet attractive. Stakeholders indicate that it is necessary to demonstrate the socio-economic benefits to convince them. This PoC project wants to contribute to tilting the balance between system costs for installation and maintenance on the one hand and filter efficiency versus the social costs of pollution on the other hand in a positive direction for the Clean Air system. The focus is on research into the development of cheaper, more efficient and fully renewable moss filters. It will be investigated whether surplus and exhausted moss from the wall can be reused and processed into an innovative zero-waste, bio-based basic filter cloth. The objective is to further close the current system by reusing waste flows as raw materials. Due to the limited project budget within this PoC project, we will initially focus on the development and characterisation of nonwoven 2D textile composites based on recycled moss fibres. We will also actively look for additional funding to investigate the possibilities of nonwoven 3D multilayers. As support, BESIX will install a fully operational airpurifying moss wall on the BlueApp site, in order to determine and compare the in-situ filter efficiency of the new moss filters under equal (multiple filters can be placed in the wall next to each other) but variable boundary conditions (wind direction, wind speed, sunlight, etc.). This project proposal focuses on research into the development, production, testing and optimisation of a more efficient, cheaper and circular Clean Air heart. The moss filters have to be affordable, work optimally and subscribe to a circular economy before other adaptations are meaningful. However, the collaboration between EMIB, BESIX and a new venture to be set up from BESIX around Clean Air by summer 2022 (the 'NewCo' ) is a stepping stone to follow-up research, where the adaptations to other subsystems could be the subject of new funding requests. As part of this bigger story, BESIX /the NewCo and EMIB are committed to a long-term collaboration with other UA research groups. The objective is to achieve a win-win for all parties and to make Clean Air a self-sustaining, socially relevant investment within a circular and green building context. The further development of Clean Air is part of the expansion of the research and valorisation programme on "Green Building" of EMIB, which has common ground with each of the 3 spearhead domains of UAntwerpen. Strengthening this programme has the potential to bring together expertise from different research groups of UAntwerpen and make them work together towards a strong BlueApp community.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Belmans Bert
• Co-promoter: Blom Johan

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In the EU, about 60% of the human protein demand is satisfied by animal-based protein sources. The livestock farming necessary to satisfy this demand is responsible for more than 80% of the NH3 and GHG emissions as well as nearly 70% of the biodiversity loss. Therefore, the EU has declared a need to reinvent the farm-to-fork value chain and to initiate a protein transition that entails reduced per capita protein consumption, the increased use of non-animal based protein sources and technological advances. Current assessments of the protein farm-to-fork value chain lack the integration of environmental systems analyses, socio-economics and engineering to adequately understand and quantify the environmental impacts of transition pathways. The aim of the ProChain project is to address these shortcoming by merging the strengths from these different disciplines and to develop novel methods and insights in three areas: i) the effective combination of life cycle assessment and material flow analysis to provide a farm-to-fork perspective on environmental impacts, while including the valorization of by-products and identification of marginal suppliers; ii) the elicitation of choice behaviors of actors along the value chain, to quantify the choice variables that shape transition pathways and; iii) to develop a prospective approach to LCA/MFA using technology assessment and socio-economic methods to quantify the environmental impacts of plausible future protein transition pathways. The pork meat production system in Flanders is used as a case from which prospective development pathways will be generated and evaluated using consequential LCA, the structural analysis approach, causal loop diagrams, technology learning & diffusion, innovation adaption concepts, bottom-up scenarios, change propagation & input-output modelling. By integrating these different methods from environmental sciences, engineering and socio-economics novel insights into the options for the manipulation the protein value chain at its environmental consequences will be generated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Due to the large environmental impact of concrete, a high demand exists for innovative concrete technologies. In order to evaluate and improve the environmental performance of these innovative technologies, a quantitative environmental assessment method such as life cycle assessment (LCA) is needed. The majority of LCA studies are applied after the technology has been fully developed. At this stage any change made to the technology will cost a substantial amount of effort and money. It is more beneficial to perform an LCA on the technology during the development stage instead. The goal is here to predict what the environmental impact of the technology will be when it reaches an industrial scale. This can give developers insight on how design choices will impact the environmental performance of the technology. Performing such a future orientated LCA, also called ex-ante LCA, can therefore greatly help with improving the technology throughout the development process. The big challenge of performing an ex-ante LCA is making a valuable assessment on the expected environmental impact of the fully developed technology at a time where little data is available, but also to project how the world will change by the time the technology is out on the market. This project will focus on creating a methodology to perform ex-ante LCA on emerging concrete technologies, which will be applied on three case studies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias
• Co-promoter: Craeye Bart
• Fellow: Maes Ben

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Recycling reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in new roads ensures a circular approach and increases the sustainability. In general, there are three applications for RAP: asphalt mixtures, cement bound base layer mix and unbound material. However, the selection process for any application is currently not optimized. Recent laboratory research also shows that the addition of RAP in new structures does not negatively affect the mechanical properties if the mixture and/or the structural design is optimized. However, it is important to note that these optimizations can have a major impact on the economic and environmental impact of our roads. Therefore, it is important to assess these effects at an early stage so that the most sustainable solution can be chosen. This research will implement life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) in road design to analyse the environmental and economic impact of the use of RAP in new roads. The first part will focus on the recycling potential of RAP. It will optimize the recycling process and determines the salvage value of RAP as a resource. Next, RAP will be used in a new cycle and the impact on the whole life cycle of roads will be examined. Finally, the LCA and LCCA will be combined and an optimization process will be designed which can be implemented in road design so the most sustainable material flow for RAP can be determined.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Van den bergh Wim
• Fellow: Moins Ben

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Social-ecological systems are linked systems of people and nature, emphasizing that humans must be seen as a part of, not apart from, nature. Currently, there exists no sound scientific basis that describes the complex interactions at the interface of the geological system component and the socio-economic system component. Decisions on subsurface utilization, changes in the subsurface, associated above-ground global and local environmental changes, energy production systems, energy consumption patterns, and waste disposal networks are activities that mediate between the geological and socio-economic elements of the broader socio-ecological system. To govern this system, it is important to create an understanding about how socio-economic and geological conditions influence the processes and patterns which define this system and the embedded interactions. The objective of this research project is to bring together the necessary elements for modelling the geological and socio-economic system to study interacting processes related to specific subsurface activities (deep geothermal, seasonal gas storage and high-radioactive waste disposal) in a relevant geological context, i.e. the Campine Basin. This will allow to consider how the subsurface reservoir under consideration can optimally be developed. This implies defining the concept of sustainable scale by dimensioning and timing activities so that current and future generations can equally benefit from the subsurface resources. Each of the activities lay in their own way a temporary or permanent claim on the subsurface, and equally differently contribute to current and future wellbeing. The research result is a prior geological-socio-economic model that will act as a stochastic framework and that makes the current understanding and uncertainties about above and below ground interactions explicit. Each following reservoir or socio-economic model analyzing subsurface development scenarios for the Campine Basin will draw directly from this framework and will be able to be mapped to it. First, current geological and socio-economic models of the Campine Basin will be reviewed and translated into a suited prior geological-socio-economic modelling framework. Then, the asymmetry of below and above ground interference effects related to these three activities will be identified and described in a real geological-economic context and it will be discussed how this leads to a nested and interactive reservoir model connected to a socio-economic decision framework. Starting from this informed conceptualized model, the different subsurface activities will be modelled in box-type reservoir and socio-economic models that will facilitate the setting of boundary conditions, as well as allow to combine models into one framework. This approach of nested modelling allows to integrate geological and socio-economic outputs and advance them to study the interferences of the different activities, and link this subsurface component to the socio-economic system component.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Bergmans Anne

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) can significantly contribute to a healthy and comfortable indoor environment, while they also beneficially affect the energy performance of a residential building. Although they are often a cost-effective investment, the lack of reliable information on their impacts can impede their market uptake. Current energy performance assessment tools for early design stages or certification do not take into account the influence of building design features and contextual factors or are not profitable for small scale applications. The performances of BACS are expected to be sensitive to the building design features, installation characteristics, occupant behaviour and climate zone. This project aims to derive the impact of several of these factors on energy, thermal comfort and economic performances by means of dynamic building energy performance simulations and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and to propose an improved assessment method, suitable for early design applications. The focus is devoted to the creation of an underlying calculation framework, which will be tested for eight case study buildings. The acquired knowledge of the relation between contextual factors and BACS performances can support design and investment decisions, while the framework will allow further expansion to cover a broader scope.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn
• Fellow: Van Thillo Lotte

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Classical school concepts must be radically rethought in order to prepare the school patrimony of the Province of Antwerp for 2050 in a sustainable way. The maximum use of space, the need for flexibility and the pursuit of a broader social function are just a few of the focal points. Responding to these issues can only be done by taking a broad and open look at them and by bringing together a social, educational, technical and sustainability perspective. The starting point for this project is the drawing up of a long-term vision for the school patrimony of the Province of Antwerp. These ambitions will be tested on a case study, in which the development of innovative and flexible HVAC concepts is central. The study bureau and proposer Cenergie will be responsible for this part. As a validation, the University of Antwerp will take care of the quantification of the environmental impact (LCA) and life cycle cost (LCC) of possible future scenarios. In addition, innovative business models will be examined to determine whether they can play a role in the transition to a circular school heritage.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Within the context of change-oriented building, there is a great need for flexibility and adaptability. In the area of reorganization of spaces, various technical solutions for adaptable interior walls and facades have already been developed. Flexibility of function, layout and use, however, also require the necessary attention to be paid to heating and ventilation. After all, adaptable solutions must also be healthy, comfortable and energy-efficient. To make solutions for adaptable interior walls and facades widely applicable and to make HVAC solutions compatible with the changing requirements imposed by an adaptable context, several issues must be addressed simultaneously. Bringing the different actors of the value chain together and anticipating a circular future in concert can create a valuable synergy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Belmans Bert

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In Flanders, more and more attention is being paid to sustainable road structures, but rather to the pavement. In the next decades, we will also have to renew the foundations and sub-foundations of existing roads in the most sustainable way possible. Only this will allow us to perpetuate our road infrastructure, which is of primary economic and social importance, for generations to come. Abroad, we see more and more innovative use of materials for foundations: new material types (e.g geopolymers) and production technologies (e.g. emulsions, foamed bitumen). In this project, one of the promising innovative technologies was deployed: recycling old asphalt pavements into bonded foundations with foamed bitumen technology. With this technology, the existing asphalt is first milled off and crushed into an aggregate. The aggregate is then processed with a hydraulic binder and foamed bitumen to form a semi-bound mixture (FOAM). FOAM is then transported to the site and compacted (cold), just like unbound foundation material. Optionally, the process can even be done in situ, with emulsion and the foundation present. In this project, the asphalt was crushed and reduced to granules near the job site and mixed in ambient temperature to form a bitumen-bonded mixture. Being able to mill, mix and process on site mainly saves transport, leading to a lower environmental impact and economic balance. This project included a market study, an elaborated lab methodology to design quality mixtures with an alternative compaction that is more applicable to contractors, process control guidelines, an elaborated road design methodology with standard structures, the construction of two trial sections with different sections and a comprehensive LCA-LCCA calculation showing that this road structure is a favourable alternative to bonded and unbonded foundations. The use of FOAM allows more road construction materials to be economically recycled on site, with equivalent mechanical quality and less environmental impact.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van den bergh Wim
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Blom Johan
• Co-promoter: Craeye Bart
• Co-promoter: Vuye Cedric

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Due to the large environmental impact of concrete, a high demand exists for innovative concrete technologies. In order to evaluate and improve the environmental performance of these innovative technologies, a quantitative environmental assessment method such as a life cycle assessment (LCA) needs to be performed. The majority of LCA studies are applied after the technology has been fully developed. At this stage any change made to the technology will cost a substantial amount of money and effort. Its more beneficial to perform an LCA on the technology during the development stage instead. Here the goal is to predict what the environmental impact of the technology will be when it reaches an industrial scale. Performing such a future orientated LCA, also called ex-ante LCA, can greatly help with improving the technology throughout the development process. This grants the developers insight on how each design choice will impact the environmental performance of the technology. The big challenge of performing an ex-ante LCA is making a valuable assessment on the expected environmental impact of the fully developed technology at a time where little data is available. This project will focus on creating a methodology to perform ex-ante LCA on emerging concrete technologies by theoretically upscaling the emerging technology to an industrial scale and taking into account changes to the incumbent technology and background system.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias
• Co-promoter: Craeye Bart
• Fellow: Maes Ben

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Context: In our increasingly dense urban environment, there is a growing need for green spaces. As there is little space left to integrate this vegetation in a traditional way, alternative solutions are needed. Where green roofs are increasingly used today, vertical building surfaces remain largely unused. However, the available vertical façade area in cities is large. Both ground-bound green façades and living wall systems have enormous market potential. In addition to the economic opportunities they offer, they go hand in hand with a positive ecological, social and urban planning impact. They offer a cost and space-efficient way to increase the liveability and climate resilience of cities, they filter pollution and CO2 from the air, they increase biodiversity and they have a positive impact on people's productivity. Goals: The latent potential of green façades is almost ready to be monetized in terms of positive economic, ecological, social and urban planning impacts. To this end, knowledge that is concentrated in research institutes and in the manufacturing industry needs to be prepared for dissemination to the field and translated into practical tools and guidelines. In order to achieve a breakthrough in vertical façade greening and stimulate new innovations, this TETRA project will therefore focus on: (1) Developing an objective assessment framework to evaluate the performance of green façades. This will include environmental, economic and building physics elements. The systems will be assessed on the basis of their performance during their entire life cycle. (2) The elaboration of practical and reliable decision tools to help the various actors within the construction sector (e.g. architects, contractors, building owners, authorities) in the judicious prescription and application of green façades. Attention will be paid to the various elements that can influence the final choice, including the installation and maintenance of the various systems (e.g. whether or not they are ground-bound). (3) Targeted product innovations and testing in demo applications, such as evaluating and optimizing the efficiency of growth limiters. (4) Disseminating the knowledge to the various target groups by means of demos, workshops, ... Particular attention will be paid to the flow of knowledge and experience to education (e.g. students of architecture and industrial engineering, as well as practical training in construction and landscaping). Output: - www.gevelgroen.be - Buildwise Innovation paper "Begroende Gevels" (November 2022) - Wetenschappelijk Eindrapport WonderWalls (November 2022) Scientific Publications: A1: Is the sustainability potential of vertical greening systems deeply rooted? Establishing uniform outlines for environmental impact assessment of VGS Rowe, Timothy; Poppe, Jan; Buyle, Matthias; Belmans, Bert; Audenaert, Amaryllis Renewable and sustainable energy reviews - ISSN 1364-0321 - 162(2022), p.1-12 A1 (Under review) A review on the Leaf Area Index (LAI) in vertical greening systems. De Bock, A., Belmans, B., Vanlanduit S., Blom J., Alvarado-Alvarado A. Audenaert, A. Building and Environment, 34 p. Modeling the hygrothermal benefits of green walls using COMSOL Multiphysics ® Alvarado-Alvarado A., De Bock, A. , Belmans, B., Denys S. Sustainable Cities and Societies (SCS) P1 Conference proceedings with peer review: What's under the canopy of current LCA studies on vertical greening systems? – a SWOT analysis Timothy Rowe, Anouk De Bock, Matthias Buyle, Bert Belmans and Amaryllis Audenaert Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Green Building Stockholm, Sweden, 6 p. SWOT Analysis of an LWS as a replacement for the outer cavity leaf. M. Adriaenssen, W. Meeusen, T. Rowe, B. Belmans, A. Audenaert Proceedings 2022 International Conference on Green Energy and Environmental Technology (GEET-22) July 2022, Rome, Italy, ISSN: 2695-804X, 6 p.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Belmans Bert
• Co-promoter: Denys Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main aim of this research is to identify the barriers preventing the use of recycled tire rubber in Belgian asphalt road surfaces and to develop market-ready solutions that can be presented to road authorities. The main expected results within the second phase of this project are the following: scaling up of the rubber modified bitumen to asphalt applications, leaching tests, analysis of the recyclability and an LCA/LCC study of rubber modified asphalt. The final work package includes the necessary follow-up steps to install the final product in one or more test tracks and finally get it approved for the Belgian market.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vuye Cedric
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Blom Johan
• Co-promoter: Van den bergh Wim

Research team(s)

• Sustainable Pavements and Asphalt Research (SuPAR)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The integration of a life cycle assessment (LCA) of emerging circular technologies at an early stage of their technological development is crucial to identify the most promising pathways for further development efforts. However, the final goal is not to assess the environmental performance of emerging technologies at lab or pilot scale, but of the estimated future scaled-up technology. Such a study can be defined as an ex-ante LCA. In this context, the general objective of this project is to assess the environmental consequences that might occur when new circular technologies to treat metallurgic by-products are introduced, by incorporating an ex-ante approach in LCA. In ex-ante LCAs, both the expected future developments of an emerging technology (foreground system) and the consequences of introducing such a technology to the market (background system) should be taken into account. A novel and structured approach for both systems will be developed by integrating technological learning, scale effects and non-linear and market based relationships in LCA. The proposed approach will be applied, tested and validated with a case study on emerging technologies aiming to recover the residual metals (Cr, V, Nb and Mo) entrapped in stainless steel and FeCr slags, under the constraint of a zero-waste approach.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Buyle Matthias

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The 1970s were characterized by a building boom of concrete structures. Many of these structures have reached the design life of 50 years: in the process, more and more reports about failing concrete structures appear. It goes without saying that these cases of damage have an enormous social and economic impact. Concrete is considered a durable material, if properly designed, executed and maintained. Many outdated and damaged concrete structures urgently need a thorough repair or maintenance. With the PWO project Balcon-e, the following research topics were addressed in order to arrive at a well-founded assessment and decision strategy: Diagnosis: how is the nature, cause and extent of damage determined? Assessment: how is the severity of the damage, both in terms of durability and structural safety, assessed? Durable repair: what actions should be carried out to slow down the damage, to repair and/or to reinforce the structure? A translation is made from the combined knowledge and experience of the academic world and the field, whereby practically applicable tools and guidelines are developed that respond to the needs of the stakeholders within the concrete repair market. Within this project, existing cantilevered concrete balconies of (residential) buildings are specifically addressed.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Groep Van Roey has submitted a change-oriented design to the City of Antwerp for a specific SB project. However, we wish to further optimize the design in order to really speak of a prototype of the Circular School for the Future.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Reclaimed asphalt is usually reintroduced into the asphalt production cycle as asphalt granulate, mainly in base courses. With an average reuse ratio of 66% for asphalt granulate, there is still a final step to be taken to optimise reuse and/or broaden the scope of application, for example use in top layers. Rejuvebit aims to technically, economically and ecologically evaluate the use of rejuvenation agents in the asphalt sector, so that their innovative use can lead to an increase in the recycling percentage of released asphalt granulate. The review and market survey of the supply of rejuvenation agents leads to a ranking of potential rejuvenation agents for the Flemish asphalt sector. On the basis of 6 demonstrative trial sites in Flanders, the technical impact of the use of rejuvenation agents was evaluated at the level of mixture design pre-study, mechanical properties of the post-study and traceability. These demonstrations were intensively documented by means of a written final report and a publicly accessible website. Each test section was divided into subsections so that, in addition to a reference, variants were also constructed. The project provides for the reporting of the quantification of the environmental impact and economic feasibility for Flanders, with scenarios for asphalt plants, processability and life span, in relation to a reference, in order to increase the recycling rate at sector level and per type of mixture. The project results were communicated through reports, the project website (https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/research-groups/emib/rejuvebit/) and various presentations. The project deals with sustainability in the sense of technical durability (quality and life span) and sustainability (financial feasibility, ecological profile and social impact). The economic impact refers to a higher production of asphalt and more in-depth innovation studies for "greener asphalt", since the increase in recycling (both higher percentages and new applications) will not lead to lower turnover but to higher production for the same budget of the client. In this project, the direct economic effect (for the target group) is calculated for the 6 test surfaces (cost price balance with higher recycling and extension of service life). The social added value is to be found in a better preservation of the road infrastructure (demonstrated in this project by means of lab test results and afterwards by having test surfaces available) and a lower ecological footprint with a higher production quantity, demonstrated in this project by means of comparative LCA-studies of the 6 test surfaces. This quantification can subsequently be used by policy makers for further environmental measures in this sector, or as an example in other sectors. The project was successfully completed. The project has shown that the use of asphalt granulate in top layers is possible up to 40% and in baselayers up to 80%, provided that a rejuvenating agent is used. The test sites are monitored annually for further evaluation. More info via: https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/research-groups/emib/rers/projects/highlighted/rejuvebit/

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van den bergh Wim
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Blom Johan

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Despite the efforts in the last years, there is still a large potential for improving the sustainability of the built environment. The concept of the transition towards a ei reu lar economy seems promising, but increasing circularity does not automatically lead to more sustainable products or buildings. Given its prominence in academies and policy, it is important that the circular economy be subjected to critique and assessed quantitatively to avoid the creation of a moral principle rather than a useful tool to increase sustainability. Many analytica! methods are already developed. However, the selection of a specific model can have a major effect on the final results. In general, consequences induced by a decision to improve the sustainable performance can not be captured by a single model. In this context, the project introduces an innovative multi-model approach by evaluating collective results of multiple models. The methodology will be applied on two case studies: dynamic building management and hybrid energy systems. Bath cases cover a wide variation with respect to the principles of the concept circular economy. The more comprehensive understanding of potential burdens, benefits and opportunities will be taken into account at additional development stages of the cases under study. To transparently present results and model uncertainty, communication strategies will be developed for decision support and policy advise, suitable for all potential stakeholders.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis

Research team(s)

• Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Even though energy demand in buildings is falling sharply and will have to fall even further, a correct calculation of the required installed capacity is becoming increasingly important. Innovative techniques often require a larger investment, which means that correct sizing is required in order to compete with conventional techniques. By introducing all kinds of IT solutions, smart solutions can be introduced which, on the one hand, allow better control of building comfort (correct power and temperature regime at all times, resulting in improved efficiency) and, on the other hand, allow to respond to grid requirements (Smart Grids, both electrical and heat) because there too the variable availability of sufficient power entails a cost.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Verbeke Stijn
• Co-promoter: Verhaert Ivan

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A large amount of building thermal mass is sometimes advocated as an energy saving measure in climate responsive building design, as it can contribute to a more stable indoor climate and store daytime solar energy gains to reduce heating demand during evening hours. Conversely, the thermal mass can also cause negative effects as the thermal inertia could prolong periods of overheating and reduce benefits of temperature setback regimes. This doctoral research sets out to investigate the relative contribution of building thermal mass on heating energy consumption and thermal comfort for Belgian residential buildings. Multi-zone dynamic building simulations using EnergyPlus software are carried out in conjunction with Matlab pre- and post-processing to investigate a broad range of design variants. Unlike the simplified (quasi-) steady-state calculation tools which are commonly used to evaluate the building's energy performance during design stage, the dynamic whole building simulation tool is able to quantify the transient heat flow and storage effects. The influences of thermal mass on energy consumption and thermal comfort are assessed in relation to other architectural design characteristics including building typology, thermal insulation, orientation, and window-to-wall ratio. The behaviour of the building occupant has proven to be an important parameter and therefore a detailed model for domestic occupant behaviour has been constructed which also represents the interactions of the occupant with the building, e.g. through the opening of windows.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Fellow: Verbeke Stijn

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UAntwerpen and on the other hand the client. UAntwerpen provides the client research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research has the double goal of proposing a protocol for Energy Retrofitting Interventions (ERI) in historical buildings and providing a holistic multiple criteria evaluation tool to enable an overall assessment and judgement of retrofitting strategies when carried out in historical buildings.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Braet Johan
• Fellow: Litti Giovanni

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project