thermal mass
[/ˈθɜːrməl mæs/]
nounpl: thermal masses
massa térmica
1. The physical property of a material that enables it to absorb, store, and release heat energy, used in building design to regulate interior temperature fluctuations
The concrete walls in the building act as thermal mass to keep the interior cool during the day and warm at night.
As paredes de concreto do edifício atuam como massa térmica para manter o interior fresco durante o dia e aquecido à noite.
2. Materials or structural components with high heat capacity used in passive solar design and energy-efficient architecture
Stone, brick, and water are common materials used for thermal mass in sustainable buildings.
Pedra, tijolos e água são materiais comuns usados para massa térmica em edifícios sustentáveis.
Thermal mass is a critical concept in both Brazilian and North American sustainable architecture, particularly in regions with significant temperature variations. In Brazil, it's especially relevant for tropical and subtropical climates where temperature regulation is important for energy efficiency. In the USA, it's fundamental to passive solar design, particularly in regions like the Southwest.
Related Idioms & Phrases
thermal mass effect - the cooling or heating effect produced by thermal mass
leverage thermal mass - to use thermal mass strategically in building design
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