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Green House in Semi-arid Regions of Mexico



Author(s)

Maria de los Angeles Rechy Carvajal, Emil von Roth and Jose Alberto Murillo Rodriguez

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DOI:10.17265/2162-5263/2016.05.002

The subject structure was consisted of a proto-type house with plan dimensions of 8 m × 4 m. A variety of materials was used to the construction, with special emphasis on using environmentally friendly non-toxic materials. The structure’s core consisted of reinforced concrete frames with masonry infill walls. Inside faces of the walls and the roof’s outside face were covered with proprietary composite panels, which are manufactured with a mixture of cement, volcanic ash, and local sawmill waste. These panels were analyzed for their physical and chemical properties, as well as for their resistance to decay and insects when subjected to extreme conditions for 15 years. The panels have also shown to provide thermal insulation and nonflammable when in direct contact with fire. The roof surface was further covered with a blend of local drought-resistant succulents and cacti. This study provides a detailed review of the construction process and materials employed.

Prototype house, thermal insulation, non-combustible, resistant to decay.