Assessing the Thermal Performance of Temporary Shelters

The aim of this study is to improve conditions inside temporary shelters for non-displaced populations from natural disasters. Field studies on transitional settlements were conducted after the Wenchuan M8.0 earthquake in 2008 and the Lushan M7.0 earthquake in 2013. Then three bamboo-wood shelter models were made in the laboratory. The temperatures and humidity were measured inside the shelters with different thermal comfort improvement approaches in cold weather conditions. Data were compared and the most effective and economical method will be recommended to the shelter occupants. The study provides the foundation of laying down the applicable guidelines for disaster relief in China.