The Impact of Thermal Insulation on Carbon Emissions Assessment: A Comparison between Vernacular and 3D-Printed Buildings in Hot and Arid Climates

This study explores the environmental performance of 3D-printed concrete (3DPC) walls integrated with thermal insulation materials, compared with conventional walls constructed from local clay bricks, in the hot-dry climate of Baghdad, Iraq. Despite global advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, local research remains limited—particularly regarding the impact of thermal insulation on the operational carbon emissions of printed buildings. The study aims to evaluate the differences in emissions between traditional and 3D-printed walls using various insulation types, based on the hypothesis that insulated printed walls offer superior environmental performance. Six wall configurations were analysed using energy modelling tools (DesignBuilder and EnergyPlus), including insulated printed walls and conventional walls. The results showed that using polyurethane foam (PUF) insulation achieved the highest reduction in operational carbon emissions—up to 26.87% during summer and 24% annually. These findings support the adoption of 3D printing technologies as a potential solution to housing shortages in hot regions, including Iraq's housing crisis.