The Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) is a highly thermally insulating device. Currently, there are commercial products that can reach a thermal conductance value, air-to-air, center-of-glass, of about 0.35 W m-2 K-1. Even though such performance in a building window would save a significant amount in energy use per year, the overall energy embodiment must be considered to quantify better the total energy saving outcomes of the VIG technology. This paper presents an input-output based life cycle analysis of the VIG technology. Taking into consideration all the upstream and downstream contributions in raw materials, production equipment, production steps, labor, transport, etc., the energy savings and embodiment are calculated. A sensitivity analysis of the production process is also provided to understand better the dominant contributions. Finally, a total impact on the return point of the technology is addressed.
Asiyath Ibrahim
The life cycle embodied energy of a Vacuum Insulated Glass
Company: University of Sydney, Australia
About the speaker:
Ms. Asiyath Ibrahim is a PhD student at the University of Sydney, focusing on sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies. With a background in engineering and project management, she contributes to advancements in life cycle analysis methodologies. Her research aims to bring innovation to the methods and systems used to determine the life cycle and energy embodiment of products and services.
