This study investigates the feasibility of transforming Aberson’s A-Brick ventilated ceramic façade into an effective Active Solar Thermal Façade (ASTF) system and evaluates its thermal performance across multiple energy applications. A combination of literature review, laboratory prototype experiments, ANSYS CFD simulations, numerical calculations, and TRNSYS annual modelling is employed to assess both heat-collector and heat-exchanger operation modes. Prototype results show that the unglazed ceramic façade achieves moderate solar-collector performance, with efficiency of 15–30%, heat-removal factors of 0.25–0.35, and a relatively high heat-loss coefficient due to direct exposure and limited thermal coupling. When operating as a heat exchanger, the system delivers an overall heat-transfer coefficient of 14–25 W/m²K, strongly governed by air-side convection. Despite lower thermal performance compared with glazed collectors or fan-coil evaporators, the façade’s large usable surface compensates for these limitations.

System-level analyses demonstrate that a 10.77 m² south-facing façade can preheat 200 L of domestic hot water during spring–summer conditions, while approximately 22.8 m² of façade area is sufficient to meet the evaporator load of a 6 kW heat pump under Dutch winter design conditions. TRNSYS simulations further indicate that the integrated façade–heat-pump system can achieve a seasonal COP of around 4.2. The results confirm that the A-Brick system can be engineered into a functional ASTF with promising potential for DHW preheating and heat-pump applications, providing a viable façade-integrated renewable energy solution for residential buildings.

This thesis explores the feasibility of constructing a flexible insulated glazing unit (IGU) using chemically strengthened thin-glass to enable higher cold bending curvatures. The research focuses on identifying optimal material combinations and structural configurations to accommodate significant deformation without compromising integrity. Both numerical modelling and physical testing were employed. In the absence of sufficient data, material properties were experimentally derived to enhance model accuracy. Strain gauges were used to validate simulations against real-world tests. Findings demonstrate that a thin-glass IGU can endure corner deformations of up to 16.3 cm, offering a performance enhancement of 4.2 times over traditional fully tempered glass units. These panels have a curvature constant of 0.112. A case study is performed to investigate how well the panels would perform in a real situation.

Due to the practicality and inexpensive nature of synthetics, large quantities of wool are going to waste. One practical application to avoid such waste could be in architecture, as wool has been established as a durable material that offers protection against the elements. However, most uses of wool in Dutch architecture are especially limited to interior decoration or small use of hidden insulation. This research will analyze how wool could be used as an architectural material by looking at the aesthetic value of wool as a product in the different shearing layers of change in a building as proposed by Brand. By using the experiment-by-design method, it will attempt to measure aesthetic experience through surveys. The resulting prototypes will be used to show how wool can be useful in architecture according to its aesthetic value.

The transition to a circular economy is essential in the building sector, where façades account for a significant portion of material use. Current unitized façade systems are optimized for performance but not designed for future disassembly or reuse. This research explores how façade systems can be redesigned to increase their reclamation potential, using a practical, design-based approach in collaboration with Scheldebouw, a Dutch façade manufacturer.
A literature review outlines circular design principles, with a focus on Design for Disassembly, connection techniques, and methods to evaluate disassembly potential. A case study of an existing façade element is used to identify key barriers through system analysis, factory observations, and disassembly experiments.
Multiple redesigns are developed: a modular “carrier frame” that simplifies the removal of insulating glass units (IGUs), and a screw-based thermal break connection that enables partial disassembly of aluminum profiles. These innovations aim to improve adaptability and support future reuse. The proposed designs are evaluated against existing systems in terms of thermal and disassembly potential using MOST and eDim. Results showed a significant improvement in both disassembly potential and thermal performance of the new system.

The thesis explores how plastic residues from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) recycling, which are typically being sent to energy recovery by incineration or destined for landfills, can be transformed into injectionmolded building components. By focusing on reinforcement spacers which are located at the internal shearing layer of concrete introduces a viable application scenario for low-grade, contaminated polymers within the built environment. The research employs a dual-track methodology: a bottom-up material experimentation track and a top-down product development track with their respective evaluation parameters that sustain a feedback loop within both tracks throughout the thesis. The material experimentation track reproduces the key mechanical recycling steps at lab scale to develop a processable polymer recipe and a heating/cooling cycle for injection molding. The lab-scale mechanical recycling steps including density separation, colour sorting, FT-IR and DSC analyses which are replicated to achieve an injection moldable polymer recipe of carbon black Polypropylene/Polyethylene (PP/PE), Polypropylene, and Polystyrene. Meanwhile, the product development track iterates material source-specific designs, which are graded by the parameters in a design optimization tool. The custom multi-criteria evaluation model guides the selection of the optimal design for the contaminated waste input. The application scenario confirms the thesis’ structural compatibility and production feasibility. The thesis proves the processability of rejected plastic fractions into non-exposed recycled heroes of construction through complex and multi-iterative techniques.

This research investigates the design and implementation of modular float glass systems that prioritize reusability and sustainability. The project addresses a significant gap in architectural practices involving glass by developing modular, demountable glass systems that can be disassembled and reused, challenging the traditional, single- use paradigm of glass in construction. Through a comprehensive review of existing glass systems and the exploration of novel connection designs, this master thesis aims to create a modular glass system as pavilion that exemplifies sustainability in architecture. The key focus is on innovating connections that allow for easy assembly and disassembly without compromising structural integrity or aesthetic values. Preliminary findings suggest this specific interlocking connection designs can enhance the life cycle and functionality of glass structures, thereby reducing their environmental impact.

The construction industry faces an urgent need to reduce its environmental footprint, in which the adoption of bio-based materials is a valuable step. However, the use of such materials in façades remains limited. This thesis, conducted within the MSc Civil Engineering (Building Engineering track) program at Delft University of Technology, in collaboration with ABT Consulting Engineers, uncovers the experienced challenges and addresses them by developing an information product for start-ups aspiring to bring bio-based non-structural closed façade products to market.
The research focuses on the knowledge and performance aspects necessary for start-ups lacking access to expert consultancy. Through a combination of literature research and interviews with start-ups and industry stakeholders, the study identifies key barriers: difficulties in product testing, difficulties navigating certification and regulatory frameworks, lack of standards tailored to bio-based materials, unfamiliarity with the use of bio-based materials, and difficulty with guarantees on supply, quality and production. Literature was reviewed on bio-based materials (e.g., flax, hemp, straw, cork, mycelium), façade design principles, façade performance (structural, fire, water, air, thermal, moisture, and acoustic), testing methods, and the legislative framework surrounding building products in the Netherlands.
The research methodology involved three phases: (1) expert dialogues to capture industry insights, (2) product development, using the state-of-the-art and results from the expert dialogues, and (3) validation through a feedback questionnaire with the target audience. The expert dialogues, taking place with start-ups, bio-based experts, and building (physics) experts, revealed advice from experience: certification should not be the main focus, but a means to help sell products, and adopt a go-to-market strategy that starts in an accessible market. The experts also gave insight in the useful knowledge from the state of the art, such as information on design tools such as UBAKUS or simple Excel models, testing methods such as compressive and flexural strength, bonding, UV, freeze, and fire resistance checks, how to comply with relevant standards by testing, and sustainability measurement tools such as LCA, MPG, BCI.
The final product is an interactive information guide designed specifically for start-ups. It navigates users through early-stage product development phases, including material selection, performance requirements, indicative testing strategies, and certification (including CE marking). The guide's format follows practices for user engagement: visual, intuitive navigation, and different layers of depth.
In conclusion, the thesis successfully creates a practical, targeted resource that empowers bio-based product start-ups to bridge critical knowledge gaps, increase their market readiness, and contribute to the sustainable transition of the built environment. The findings stress the importance of flexible certification frameworks, simplified early-stage testing, and stakeholder involvement to enable broader acceptance of bio-based innovations in construction.

Almost 40% of annual gas emmissions globally are produced by the construction sector. Due to the housing crisis of the Netherlands, the ministry of Housing and Spatial Planning wants to build almost a million dwellings before 2030, double the number of dwellings normally built in the same period. With that come greater gas emmisions. This growing amount of emissions however, can decrease drastically by using local and natural materials instead of the often used steel or concrete.

This research therefore aims to explore the potentials of natural local fibers for structural materials within new architecture. The use of these materials could reduce the carbon emissions greatly, while also bringing back the local identity of a place, that is now mostly lost due to a lot of generic, one-size-fits-all architecture.

This research begins with the investigation of local, natural materials that already have been introduced as building materials in the Netherlands historically and evaluates other natural fibers and their availability. The research soon delves into willow fibers and their properties and potentials. The final results provide an insight into the structural properties of different species of willow, a design for a structural element, its potential implementations within architectural projects and the possibilities of using this fiber on a big scale.

The world is currently experiencing a major global warming problem, and the construction industry stands out as one of the major contributors to a high percentage of carbon emissions. This is primarily due to the usage and production of materials. When buildings are examined in detail, it becomes evident that floor systems constitute a significant portion of the construction within buildings. Essential structural components, such as concrete and steel, along with small-scale building materials used across diverse applications, are major contributors to high carbon emissions. These materials are primarily non-bio-based, emit unhealthy gases during production, and have limited sources.

In response to this problem, there is an urgent need to shift towards using alternative materials in the construction industry and explore materials and methods that are renewable, local, bio-based, biodegradable, and do not produce harmful substances during their production. Therefore, this research aims to map out the possibilities of bio-based materials that have the potential to be structural components but have not been extensively detailed in the literature. In the context of this thesis, flax fibers and bio-based polymers that can potentially replace petroleum-based products are chosen. Adopting a research-by-experiment approach, various bio-based materials for the core material will be tested to identify the most suitable core material for the sandwich floor system. Besides, for the face sheet, flax fibers with a PLA matrix have been chosen. In turn, the sandwich is produced by a PLA core and Flax/PLA composite.

The results highlight that the proposed materials are capable of resisting necessary loads for residential building construction. Additionally, the floor panel possesses high environmental positive properties and low carbon emissions during its production stages. It is expected that this material proposes a new system that can become mainstream in the construction industry as a sustainable option by replacing conventional methods. However, the material also has a higher cost compared to a residential concrete hollow core system. Additionally, the life cycle analysis of the product should be conducted to better understand the LCA of the material. In general, by contributing valuable knowledge in the realm of sustainable construction materials, this research aligns with global goals for eco-friendly practices and underscores the potential for carbon-neutral materials to bring transformative advancements in structural applications within the construction industry.

Building construction accounts for roughly 36% of global energy consumption and emits about 39% of CO2 from energy use [9]. Consequently, there is a growing push to adopt sustainable construction methods and utilize materials with low embodied energy [10]. As buildings stand as major contributors to CO2 emissions, the focus is shifting towards timber as a building material choice. Timber is renewable, stores carbon, and boasts low embodied carbon from production [11]. However, while high-rise timber frames represent a significant step in integrating timber at a larger scale, their connections often rely on steel, contributing to increased embodied carbon.
This thesis explores the resurgence of interest in wood-to-wood connections as a response to sustainability imperatives in modern construction. It examines the historical significance of timber joinery, the current state of sustainable construction, and the potential of engineered timber products in reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, the thesis investigates modern innovations in timber connections, focusing on the development of ductile and eco-friendly alternatives to steel fasteners. Through theoretical frameworks, experimental studies, and structural validations, this research aims to understand the impact of implementing timber dry joints on the embodied carbon of high-rise timber building frames. Results reveal that while timber dry joints offer potential in reducing embodied carbon, their effectiveness varies. While they can reduce the need for steel fasteners, their impact on lowering embodied carbon is limited. Conversely, the integration of continuous beams and multiple-span floor systems proves to significantly reduce embodied carbon in timber building frames.
Overall, the findings underscore the importance of holistic approaches in optimizing timber building frames for sustainability, highlighting the potential of innovative design strategies in achieving carbon reduction goals.

This thesis researches the gap between technical innovation and practical application with regards to 3D printing in the construction sector. It first identifies the importance of adopting a holistic approach to product design as to optimally exploit the advantages of 3D printing and meet immediate needs in the built environment. Thereafter, it evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of additive manufacturing, explores its potential large-scale adoption in construction, and defines the criteria for feasible 3D-printed solutions. In the second part of the thesis, the Tesla valve is researched as a case study to research how the strengths and weaknesses of 3D printing might be overcome in product design. In doing so, it also evaluates the effectiveness of Tesla valves in the regulation of natural ventilation and explores how 3D printing might compensate for the shortcomings of this concept.

Truss-to-GO is the name given to a Research-by-Design idea for a novel construction technology for Lattice Structures such as trusses and space frames. The ambition is to develop an in-situ fabrication method for these structures, using a continuous Flax- FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composite-technology-based ‘Rope’ that can be compactly transported to site in a spool, and manually ‘woven’ into truss-like shapes and finally cured and rigidified. This thesis explores the first steps of such a technology, starting some of the mechanical properties that can be achieved by braided flax polymer composites as a single strut or chord in the lattice, with consideration for the pre-cure consolidation strategy for the composite. Further, the mechanical performance of a joint, or node, in the lattice is tested, and a proposal for the on-site infrastructures and fabrication workflow is developed. Finally, a simple comparison is made between the Truss-to-GO technology and some conventional lattice construction technologies, with insights about the potentials, limitations and future research topics for this ‘fantasy’ technology.

This thesis explores the integration of kinetic and media features from facades to create architectural narratives, focusing on how facades can serve not just the occupants within but also engage and captivate passersby from the outside. The primary research question investigates whether it’s feasible to employ media and kinetic tools to craft facades that not only fulfill functional requirements like shading and thermal comfort but also function as dynamic mediums of aesthetic expression and storytelling.
The answer, as detailed in this report, is affirmative. The document is structured to guide you through the development process of the thesis’s two main parts. A facade piece capable of being parametrized in bulk to create various architectural forms, and its application in designing a visually striking pavilion for the TU Delft Bio-Based Lab. The lab’s requirement for an engaging and visually appealing structure underpins the motivation for this thesis.
This report chronicles a lengthy design journey beginning with an initial preview of the final pavilion design and the articulation of the research question. It proceeds with a summary of the pertinent literature review, followed by the evolution of design concepts—starting from the Maze, progressing through the Wave and the Flora, and culminating in the Urchin, which represents the synthesis of the explored design principles.
The document concludes with personal reflections on the project and an appendix containing extensive illustrations and sketches, which were too voluminous to include within the main body of the report.

Culturally diverse communities often struggle with prejudice and division among the member groups. Considering the current positive trend in globalization, and thus, also migration, the cultural diversity of communities is on the rise. As a result, The World Economic Forum assessed the erosion of social cohesion to be the 4th most dangerous risk on a global scale within the next decade (WEF, 2022).

Beyond Divisions is a proposal aimed at addressing this problem. Located in Lublin (Poland), which nowadays struggles with hostility and xenophobia, the building draws from the site's past cultural diversity to bring back the social cohesion lost during the WWII era.

The universal research and symbolism of the proposal ensure the transferability of the solution to other sites that also struggle with the deterioration of social cohesion to create a community beyond divisions.

Improved productivity and a higher level of sustainability are modern day challenges faced by the building industry that are currently being and could further be solved by a higher degree of automation. Freeform architecture is still in its infancy but the demand for it is growing. Reusable building elements are a rarity in freeforms. This thesis aims for the implementation of a new node and beam system for increased reusability and for more automation in the construction of building facades.

This thesis introduces a novel reusable node and beam system for use in the automatic assembly of freeform architecture. By optimising input shapes, applying computational placement of the elements and generating instructions for robotic systems, the building sector can not only improve its productivity and reduce its emissions, it can furthermore revolutionise the stylistic nature of architecture and facilitate the fluid adaptation of new forms and functions.

Architects and urban planners still rely on physical models in the design process, particularly for urban contexts. However, developing such models can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, despite the abundance of digital information available. This study investigates the feasibility of using pin-type models, specifically in the concept and design phase of mass modelling and analysis for urban, rural, and complex building sites. The research uses a combination of literature review, design-based research, and interviews, leading to the discovery of a promising solution. Existing pin-type models in the market or universities either come at a high cost or lack the necessary resolution to generate detailed urban models. However, this study identifies a method that significantly reduces costs while achieving higher pin resolution, although with some compromises in generation time and holding power compared to current models. The innovative rubber layer, also known as the state layer, plays a crucial role in the machine's advancements. This layer enables the machine to keep pins in place at a lower cost but with lower holding power. Additionally, leveraging technology from the 3D printing and CNC manufacturing domains, the machine incorporates multiple individually moving motors that can rapidly set up to 40 pins in one motion, reaching speeds of up to 1200 pins per minute. Making it possible to generate large pin sets in less then an hour, meaning it would be faster than traditional methods like 3D printing or manual foam cutting. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the central role of code in this study. Integrating all the necessary steps into a single code can generate an urban area within minutes. The program facilitates a user-friendly interface for selecting locations, automatically downloading height maps from the AHN (Actueel Hoogtebestand Nederland), converting the data into a digital model compatible with the machine, and exporting it as a G-code file. The machine and code also support displaying additional digital information, such as 3D models and images. Combining the improved machine and optimized code demonstrates the potential to create physical urban context models from digital data at a relatively low cost compared to other devices. With working times of minutes instead of hours or even days, compared to traditional model-making methods.
Although this research shows considerable potential, there are several challenges that demand attention and additional investigation. The ultimate determination of whether the final product will require a $10,000 or $20,000 investment hinges upon the availability and cost of visible pins. Moreover, the current conversion of rotation to Bowden cables is suboptimal, and further enhancements are necessary. Additionally, the code could benefit from optimization to ensure compatibility with slower computers, thereby improving its speed and efficiency. Furthermore, the code should be extended to enhance its compatibility with 3D models, and ideally, with BIM models as well. It is essential that the code incorporates a function enabling the combination and selection of data, facilitating the movement of only the necessary sections of the machine. With this research, a solid foundation has been established for further expansion and exploration in this field. The successful development of a working machine code paves the way for practical testing and implementation. Although there are some mentioned additions that could enhance the research, the limitations of time prevented their full exploration in this study. Nonetheless, this research opens up exciting possibilities for future advancements and applications in the field.

In contemporary architecture free-form buildings play an important role. The materials used, for example fibre reinforced composites or concrete, are not sustainable. Because the built environment is responsible for a significant part of the global resource usage and because it is one of the most polluting industries it is important to make every effort to reduce its environmental impact. In more conventional architecture renewable and more sustainable materials like timber are among the oldest building materials and are now being rediscovered. In curved façades however it is much less common because curved surfaces and the material properties of renewable and sustainable materials cause complexities in the production and assembly processes. Whether curved façade panels, made from a bio-composite, can be fabricated using an industrial fabrication process has not been extensively researched. The goal of this thesis is to explore the possibilities of making curved façades more sustainable by using a bio-composite and by using an industrial production process. This is done by conducting literature research and by designing a bio-composite façade panel and production process. This process has been supported by experimenting, prototyping and a case study of the Depot Boijmans van Beuningen designed by MVRDV.
Because the bio-composite façade panel is produced using a hot press and an aluminium mould it is best suited for façades of which all panels are identical or for panels with a lot of repetition. One of the advantages of the material, design and production method is that the panels consist of very few parts. The water resistance is something that needs to be improved ether by changing the composition of the material or by applying a bio-based coating.

Since many neighborhoods were constructed after the Second World War, a significant number of these buildings will require renovation in the coming years. Particularly, neighborhoods known as “Bloemkoolwijken” (cauliflower neighborhoods), named after their distinct cauliflower-like urban structure, account for 20% of the current building stock. These single-family homes, constructed approximately 50 years ago, require upgrades to meet current insulation standards. However, the construction sector, and specifically the building materials used, significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the importance of environmentally friendly building materials. Therefore this research aims to explore the potentional of regional bio-based materials for add-on facade renovation of these Bloemkoolwijken. By utilizing locally sourced materials, this project aims to reinforce the local identity while reducing the carbon footprint associated with the renovation. The study focuses on upgrading insulation as well as the exterior layer of the buildings, given the flexibility, identity, lifespan and awareness that this gives. The research begins on a larger scale by investigating bio-based materials in vernacular architecture and gradually zooms in on the Netherlands, examining different regional landscapes and their associated vegetation. The final results provide insights into sustainable renovation practices by utilizing locally sourced materials from three distinct landscapes: peat, sand, and clay. The look-books offer a comprehensive overview of the possibilities in this field, while the proof of concept demonstrates the feasibility of such renovations.

The Maldivian Islands are facing multiple challenges, including sea level rise, coastal erosion, and poor waste management. This research explores the development of a future-proof system using recycled plastic waste in order to protect the islands. The developed system includes an engineered artificial reef design, which is acting as wave breaking structure. This artificial reef is capable of withstanding extreme conditions, which occur more often as a result of global warming. Plastic waste will be recycled to construct the wave breaking structure, transforming the excessive waste problem into a solution. The system addresses a wide variety of problems, such as waste management, coastal erosion, and floods. It also creates awareness among tourists and local population, because it will make the island more attractive for eco-tourism and it will create more jobs on the island, which will affect daily lives of the local population. All together, the system offers protection to the coastal areas and preserves ecosystems. This pilot version of the sustainable and resilient system offers adaptability to other islands and incorporates traditional architecture for cultural preservation and future user needs. This leads to economic benefits, job opportunities, and increased
awareness of waste management and environmental conservation. This research is providing a strong foundation for the development and implementation of a future-proof system that contributes to the preservation and protection of the Maldivian Islands. By researching the possibilities of recycled plastic waste and integrating it into the designed system, a more sustainable and resilient future for the vulnerable islands and its communities is created.

As a threatening reality to the planet’s stability, climate change has forced the building industry to develop sustainable techniques and materials to fulfil the constant demand for infrastructure. Timber, as a biobased material, appears like a promising option for constructing highrise structures, a typology that, before the creation of engineered wood products (EWP), was impossible due to technical limitations. Today, buildings with timber as macrostructure are being built worldwide, redrawing the skylines of many cities and revolutionizing the way the building is due to its low CO2 embodied carbon and reducing construction time. However, these new buildings still need to improve regarding circularity principles. Today, the timber industry is experiencing a flourishing, even tho timber highrises implement inefficient design constraints that limit adaptability and durability and decrease their advantage of having a lower embodied energy than traditional construction materials. This investigation delves into the feasibility of timber highrise structures and examines various factors that must be considered when evaluating them. The study utilizes a parametric model to determine the crucial role of the core and the influence of structural components in the global stiffness of highrise structures and in potential strategies to maximize mechanical behaviour following circular principles; with the results of structural analysis, a draft study case is proposed in the area of the spatial framework of M4H of Rotterdam. The project proposes a timber Highrise designed with design principles for disassembly, adaptability, modularity, and durability. The building is designed to address the challenge of construction waste generated by infrastructure obsolescence, set a standard for highrise design that is environmentally responsible, and create a symbiotic relationship between the building and its environment.