Soojusmassi

Soojusmassi, often translated as thermal mass, refers to the ability of a material to absorb, store, and later release heat. Materials with high thermal mass can moderate temperature fluctuations within a space. This means they help keep a building cooler during hot periods by absorbing excess heat and warmer during cold periods by releasing stored heat.

Common materials with high thermal mass include concrete, brick, stone, and water. These substances tend to have a high density and specific heat capacity. Density contributes to the amount of material present in a given volume, while specific heat capacity indicates how much energy is required to raise the temperature of a unit mass by one degree.

The principle of thermal mass is particularly effective in passive solar design. During the day, sunlight can strike thermal mass elements, heating them up. As temperatures drop at night, these elements slowly release their stored heat, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without requiring active heating systems. Conversely, in warmer climates, thermal mass can absorb heat during the day, keeping interiors cooler, and release this absorbed heat at night when outdoor temperatures are lower.

The effectiveness of thermal mass is influenced by factors such as the material's properties, its thickness, and its exposure to heat sources like sunlight or internal heat gains. It is a key concept in sustainable building design, contributing to energy efficiency and occupant comfort.