On-site measurements and whole-building thermal dynamic simulation of a semi-confined prefabricated building for heritage conservation

In this study the capability of BDFWall model (IDA Indoor Climate and Energy software) is assessed in a semi-confined site for conservation of works of art. The case under study is the paleontological deposit of “La Polledrara di Cecanibbio” (Rome, Italy), where many valuable faunal remains from Middle Pleistocene are preserved. Thermo-hygrometric data collected over the period 2009 – 2013 allowed thoroughly investigating the environmental conditions of the site. The calibration of the simulation building model was performed in two phases. First, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to identify which input parameters significantly affect the discrepancy, if any, between measured and modelled hourly indoor temperature (T) data (from September to December 2013). Second, the calibration of the model was carried out taking into account the most effective parameters. The dual approach, given by both experimental and simulation data, can support preventive measures about risk analysis for artworks in the case of retrofit solutions of a building used for the conservation purpose.