VIP-element is a Research and Development project owned by Betong & Entreprenør AS (B&E), a concrete entrepreneur from Lofoten, Norway. SINTEF Narvik AS is the research partner. B&E is an all-round supplier of concrete, operating a mixing plant, making pre-cast products, and on-site concrete contracting.
The goal is to develop a new product based on existing concrete floor slabs which incorporate hydronic heat pipes into the slab during production. The primary purpose of the pipes is to change the cold surface of the slab to a heat source while casting on-site in cold climates. Additionally, they supply heat to the building during the construction period, replacing other temporary heating solutions and can act as a heat source throughout the lifespan of the building.
Initially, energy for the heating pipes was to come from high efficiency diesel fueled industrial heat systems, but the project was forced to re-evaluate due to new national regulations forbidding fossil-based fuel systems for buildings in the construction period, beginning 01.01.22. We have since explored green heat sources, finding the VIP-system to potentially combine well with heating systems fueled by biodiesel, hydrogen and ammonia, electrical heating systems such as heat pumps, and urban central heat systems.
Through investigation and application of the developed solutions, the path to a sustainable future for concreting in arctic climates becomes clearer. Additionally, in regions where high temperatures are the issue, the VIP-system shows promise given its ability to transport cool liquid as well.
The project is funded by Innovation Norway.