Determining the critical insulation thickness of breathing wall: Analytical model, key parameters, and design

Breathing wall (BW) based on air-permeable porous medium offers an alternative solution for utilizing the conductive heat loss of building envelope to preheat infiltration ventilation airflow within medium. However, current studies neglect influence pressure drop energy performance BW, which may lead overestimation or non-optimal design. In this study, we proposed a framework determine critical insulation thickness BW minimizing its convective and related loss. An analytical model was developed validated calculate under third-type boundary condition. Darcy's law applied estimate associated Case were conducted identify BW. The different scenarios investigated. results demonstrate existence thickness, yields lowest overall A larger rate lower air permeability will result in downward trend thickness. outcomes study can provide design guideline maximizing saving potential.