Energy Efficient Building Ventilation Systems

Energy Efficient Building Ventilation Systems


Program:
BEETIT
Award:
$458,251
Location:
Portland, Oregon
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
10/15/2010 - 10/14/2011

Technology Description:

Architectural Applications (A2) is developing a building moisture and heat exchange technology that leverages a new material and design to create healthy buildings with lower energy use. Commercial building owners/operators are demanding buildings with greater energy efficiency and healthier indoor environments. A2 is developing a membrane-based heat and moisture exchanger that controls humidity by transferring the water vapor in the incoming fresh air to the drier air leaving the building. Unlike conventional systems, A2 locates the heat and moisture exchanger within the depths of the building's wall to slow down the air flow and increase the surface area that captures humidity, but with less fan power. The system's integration into the wall reduces the size and demand on the air conditioning equipment and increases liable floor area flexibility.

Potential Impact:

If successful, A2's building moisture and heat exchange technology and its integration into the building wall would lower energy use, contribute to healthier indoor environments, and increase the flexibility of configuring lease space in commercial buildings.

Security:

Increased energy efficiency would decrease U.S. energy demand and reduce reliance on fossil fuels—strengthening U.S. energy security.

Environment:

Improved humidity control in buildings lowers energy use in air conditioning and reduces the production of mold and other irritants caused by high humidity, leading to healthier indoor environments.

Economy:

Widespread adoption of this technology could reduce energy consumption for air conditioning of buildings—providing consumers with cost savings on energy bills.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Ravi Prasher
Project Contact:
Mr. John Breshears
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
jebreshears@comcast.net

Partners

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Membrane Technology & Research, Inc. (MTR)

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Release Date:
03/02/2010