ABSTRACT
With the increasing popularity of simulation tools and the need for a comprehensive material characterization a new approach for a material database is needed. Many material databases have been created to contain measured data and provide input for simulation tools. Most have limitations that make these databases incompatible for applications other than those envisaged by the database producers. Limitations stem from restrictions regarding the choice of models and parameters stored in the databases and the chosen data format. Also material parameters are included without information about how they are defined and have been obtained. This paper describes a flexible and extendible design for a relational database containing parameters for total building performance. It will allow researchers and practitioners alike to access desired data. The database will initially include information about Volatile Organic Compounds and hygrothermal properties of materials but may be extended to incorporate data for other properties.
