Microstructural Characteristics of Earth Materials and the Induced Latent Heat on Indoor Environment

Shenwei Yu, Jun Mu () and Zhipeng Liang
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Shenwei Yu: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
Jun Mu: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China
Zhipeng Liang: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 13, 1-18

Abstract: Earth materials in construction demonstrate significant potential attributed to their accessibility, recyclability, and low energy demands for processing. Modern techniques have enhanced their mechanical strength and durability, enabling their application in load-bearing and infill walls while preserving ecological benefits. However, existing studies on indoor heat–humidity regulation primarily emphasize material parameters and macro-level performance. Moreover, the dynamic interactions between the unique thermal storage–release mechanisms and indoor environments have not been systematically analyzed. With the Kelvin equation, capillary mechanics, adsorption theories, and microstructural analysis were integrated in this study to quantify cyclic capillary condensation and evaporation in microvoids. The results reveal that earth materials contain abundant medium-sized pores (19.85–53.83 nm) sustaining vapor exchange with their surroundings. Capillary condensation occurs 0.86–0.96 times the planar surface vapor pressure, influenced by pore size (negatively correlated) and temperature (negatively correlated). During the daytime, capillary evaporation occurs in the nanopores of the raw earth wall under the influence of the outdoor environment’s cyclical temperature and humidity. This process absorbs heat from the indoor environment and raises the ambient humidity. During the nighttime, capillary condensation occurs in the pores, releasing heat to the indoor area and absorbing moisture from the environment, contributing to the balance of the indoor thermal environment of the earth buildings. The findings lay a scientific foundation for quantitatively evaluating earth buildings’ indoor climate control performance, supporting their integration into green building systems. This research bridges knowledge gaps in micro-to-macro thermal dynamics while advancing the ecological optimization of materials for sustainable architecture.

Keywords: earth materials; microstructure; capillary condensation and evaporation; latent heat (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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