Acoustic performance in a lightweight ventilated façade for building refurbishment: analysing the impact of variations in airborne sound insulation according to the ventilation characteristics

The use of double-sheet enclosures with an intermediate air chamber in façades guarantees a higher quality of acoustic insulation against external airborne noise. The effective advantages of the intermediate air chamber depend mainly on its airtightness and the absorbent material contained inside. A ventilated façade with lightweight cladding (LVF) is a specific construction system for double-sheet envelope façades, characterised by an intermediate air chamber that enables a certain amount of internal air circulation, with resulting cooling effects to alleviate excess solar radiation whilst reducing the risk of dampness caused by rainwater. However, owing to this ventilation of the intermediate air chamber, the acoustic insulation of the entire façade could prove less effective than cases in which the intermediate air chamber is completely sealed. Through various methods of measurement and analysis, several authors consider that the opening of the intermediate air chamber for hygrothermal control purposes does not necessarily represent a significant reduction in the level of sound insulation in general. What does appear to have a significant influence on the acoustic behaviour is the surface and location of the intermediate air chamber openings to enable ventilation. The results of this research are presented as further evidence that the positive contribution of LVF should be acknowledged at a regulatory level regarding sound insulating, double-sheet envelope architectural façades.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Proposal for the development of an alternative system for wall lining interior partitions to improve existing housing performances, based on use of moulded panels of recycled pulp of cellulose

The present contribution deals with the development of a constructive system for wall lining of partition walls focused on the rehabilitation of existing dwellings that present deficits in terms of insulation and the layout of wired conduits. The objective of this development is to carry out these constructive tasks with the greatest speed, cleanliness and least inconvenience and environmental impact. Thus, it seeks to comply with the requirements of adequacy in buildings to intervene, save the inconveniences of current and past rehabilitation systems, and take a step towards the response to those needs that have arisen diachronically in the housing of installations in partition walls. In response to the above reasons, a composite sandwich construction configuration was designed between the existing support wall body and the back closure plate. The element that joins both parts of the sandwich presents an adequate relieve moulded with a pulp recycled cellulose material called Biprocel.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

High Performing Teams: The Moderating Effects of Communication Channels

The purpose of this study is to support the Air Force\u27s goal of improving team performance by bringing visibility to several overlapping areas of study where little comprehensive research has been conducted. Specifically, an officer\u27s ability to successfully complete his or her mission has been complicated in recent years by the emergence of new communication technologies. For example, communication networks now make it possible for pilots to fly Unmanned Arial Vehicles (UAVs) who sit on one continent while the aircraft and mission planners are on another and, although they may not see each other, their physical separation does not negate the need for effective team performance. It is important organizations have a clear understanding of the impact that communication technologies have on team and individual behaviors. Knowing these effects may mean the difference between successfully completing a mission or not