This research is focused on the influence of carbonate minerals on the properties of ceramic blocks as a replacement for commercial stabilizers, using three types of clays and sawdust as raw materials extracted from Chiapas, Mexico, for their application in thermal insulation on lightweight construction systems of local buildings. The effective thermal conductivity of each sample was tested by the guarded hot plate method in a permanent state, and their physical and chemical properties were determined by water absorption, X-ray powder diffraction, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. The results directed attention toward the knowledge of the role of the parameters in improving the thermal insulation properties, highlighting calcite as a favorable stabilizer in the manufacture of such blocks. Furthermore, the parameter affecting the thermal conductivity of the samples is the mass percentage of magnesium oxide (MgO) in a positive linear trend. Finally, the volumetric proportions of the sawdust as a pore-forming aggregate influence the decrease in the bulk density in the ceramic blocks and, thus, the reduction in the thermal conductivity.

ResumenEl presente artículo tiene por objetivo desarrollar una propuesta de vivienda bioclimática y eficiencia energética en Centro Histórico de Oaxaca, a través del análisis y aplicación de estrategias bioclimáticas, para reducir el consumo energético, tomando como caso de estudio un inmueble en mal estado perteneciente al centro histórico de Oaxaca. El método de trabajo es cuantitativo y experimental, para ello, se realiza un análisis climático, se desarrollan y seleccionan estrategias bioclimáticas y se evalúan a través de la simulación energética en el programa Energy Plus. El resultado de la investigación concluye en que el diseño bioclimático contribuye a que la temperatura interior alcance confort térmico, y a su vez, se desarrolle eficiencia energética, así como, ahorro en consumo energético para enfriamiento. Es trabajo del arquitecto pensar en propuestas arquitectónicas que se adapten al medio en el que vivimos y que busquen prepararse ante las adversidades del futuro. The purpose of this article is to develop a proposal for bioclimatic housing and energy efficiency in the Historic Center of Oaxaca through the analysis and application of bioclimatic strategies to reduce energy consumption, using as a case study a deteriorated building located in Oaxaca’s historic center. The methodology is quantitative and experimental; it includes a climate analysis, the development and selection of bioclimatic strategies, and their evaluation through energy simulation using the EnergyPlus software. The results of the research conclude that bioclimatic design helps indoor temperatures reach thermal comfort and, in turn, improves energy efficiency and reduces energy consumption for cooling. It is the architect’s task to conceive architectural proposals that adapt to the environment in which we live and seek to prepare for the challenges of the future.” Keywords:Bioclimatic design, energy simulation, energy efficiency.