Energy-saving and Economic Evaluation of Vacuum Insulation Panels with Glass Wool Core-polyimide Membrane Structure in Hotel Buildings under Different Climatic Conditions

This study prepares high-performance PI/VIP composite thermal insulation materials for buildings by integrating polyimide (PI) composite membranes and vacuum insulation panels (VIPs), and uses EnergyPlus to explore their impacts on building energy conservation, operating costs, and carbon emissions under different climates. Experimental results show the materials have low thermal conductivity, long service life, and excellent thermal insulation and flame-retardant properties due to their internal vacuum structure inhibiting heat transfer. Simulations in Jinan (tropical monsoon), Heilongjiang (cold temperate), and Shenzhen (subtropical humid) climates indicate that compared with traditional XPS and rock wool boards, buildings using PI/VIP composites achieve 21.3%, 34.7%, and 18.9% higher annual energy-saving efficiency respectively, with 27%-41% lower carbon emissions; the most significant effects in Heilongjiang highlight the material’s great promotion potential in severe cold areas.