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Life cycle carbon impacts of thermal mass and ground coupling in residential buildings

Author

Listed:
  • Kuczyński, Tadeusz
  • Gortych, Marta
  • Staszczuk, Anna

Abstract

Decarbonising housing requires life-cycle assessments that reflect shifting climate and power-sector trajectories. This study evaluates two full-scale, equal-use dwellings with contrasting thermal configurations: a medium-weight masonry structure directly coupled to the ground (B1) and a lightweight timber-frame on a fully insulated slab-on-ground (B2). A cradle-to-grave, 75-year assessment (2026–2100) integrates three SSP pathways, embodied emissions (A1–A3), operational heating and cooling (B6), and end-of-life (C1–C4). Empirical multi-season monitoring anchors operational baselines; electricity carbon intensity declines stepwise from 400 to 200 to 100 g CO2·kWh−1 across three 25-year periods.

Suggested Citation

  • Kuczyński, Tadeusz & Gortych, Marta & Staszczuk, Anna, 2025. "Life cycle carbon impacts of thermal mass and ground coupling in residential buildings," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 340(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:340:y:2025:i:c:s036054422504784x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139142
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zhongjia Chen & Hongmei Gu & Richard D. Bergman & Shaobo Liang, 2020. "Comparative Life-Cycle Assessment of a High-Rise Mass Timber Building with an Equivalent Reinforced Concrete Alternative Using the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(11), pages 1-15, June.
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