INNOVATIVE COMPOSITE FORMULATIONS FOR THERMAL REGULATION: A Synergy of Computational Design and Waste Material Valorisation to Enhance Outdoor Thermal Comfort

The role of computational design in developing composite materials to mitigate urban heat island (UHI) effects is the main objective of this study. Utilizing the CES GRANTA material selector, the research systematically evaluates various composite formulations that integrate waste materials, such as polyethylene terephthalate(PET), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and Glass into concrete matrices. The methodology comprises four key steps: matrix material selection, particulate definition, simulation for data generation, and comparative analysis of thermal properties. The software facilitates the identification of optimal material compositions by analysing thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, and other relevant characteristics.By running simulations based on defined parameters, the software generates updated material properties, allowing for thorough comparisons between newly designed composites and original matrix materials. Results indicate that incorporating waste materials significantly enhances the thermal efficiency of concrete, contributing to sustainability goals while addressing UHI challenges. The findings underscore the potential of computational methods in material design, enabling architects and engineers to develop innovative solutions tailored to specific environmental needs. By leveraging advanced software tools, this research demonstrates how computational approaches can transform material selection processes, ultimately promoting more sustainable urban environments and improving overall urban life quality.