Towards heat resilience of buildings: Heat impact analysis and transferability of adaptation strategies between Germany and Iran

Abstract

Climate change introduces significant challenges for civil engineering, especially concerning heat resilience in buildings. This study investigates the susceptibility of buildings to heat waves and explores the transferability of adaptation strategies between Germany and Iran. Building resilience is shaped by factors such as architectural design, materials, and construction methods, requiring advanced thermal simulation models to understand building performance. The analysis integrates dynamic building performance simulations, accounting for physical properties, room usage schedules, and ventilation effects, along with meteorological data like temperature, wind, and solar radiation.

By comparing the climatic conditions of Germany and Iran, the study reveals key differences in temperature patterns and their implications for building design. While both countries experience rising temperatures, Iran's climate is more stable, while Germany faces more significant seasonal fluctuations. The study also demonstrates how hourly temperature data can guide heat adaptation strategies, focusing on passive cooling in Germany and minimizing cooling energy demands in Iran. These findings underscore the importance of tailored adaptation measures, including urban planning, shading, and ventilation improvements, to enhance heat resilience in response to local climate conditions.