Closing Loops

Optimizing unitized facades for Circularity by Design for Disassembly

Master thesis (2020)

Authors

H.H.A. Gamerschlag Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

T. Klein Building Product Innovation - Architecture and the Built Environment (supervisor 1)
Bob Geldermans Climate Design and Sustainability - Architecture and the Built Environment (supervisor 1)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2020 Hans Gamerschlag
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Published Date

24-06-2020

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

The overall aim of this research is to review existing facades produced by a leading façade manufacturer and develop new systems corresponding with the company’s main product features and improved for Circular Economic performance by applying the principles of Design for Disassembly. The study is based on a literature research about the Circular Economy, Design for Disassembly and relevant assessment systems for the two terms. Existing projects are reviewed and the findings translated into guidelines for future façade developments. With the guidelines in mind two new systems are developed and rated for their performance on Circularity and Disassembly. The first part of the paper examines the current status of the existing facades for Circularity and Disassembly potential. The second part provides evidence that the adoption of the guidelines can lead to better performances, either incremental by applying limited changes as per produced guideline or more substantial by redesign. For practitioners working on innovative façade systems in the realm of the circular economy this paper provides basic guidelines for designing and rating their concepts. This paper reviews a specialist product on its potential for Circularity and Disassembly, aspects currently gaining in importance.