Termites Nests Have Excellent Air Conditioning

Function

The termite nests in the savanna constantly maintain a temperature of 30°C despite the great difference between outside day and night temperatures. This is thanks to the very small holes in the dirt, which allow for humidity regulation and gas exchange, as well as to the structure of the nest itself. The part of the termite’s nest that is above ground is several meters tall, while the underground part of the nest has tunnels called “ant roads” that are several meters long. The groundwater below the ant roads makes the dirt inside the tunnel moist and cool. These ant roads are also connected to the tunnel that extends out of the ground like a chimney, so that wind can enter the nest, cooling it and providing ventilation.

Functional Classification

Resouce/Energy/Information Collection & Storage:
Heat insulation
Transfer/Dispose/Circulate:
AirCirculation
Defense/Stability:
Humidification

Environmental Solution Classification

Related Literature

Technical Application

These structural concepts have been applied to buildings that incorporate natural cooling mechanisms and are used in development of wall materials that can control humidity.

Products and Services

  • INAX’s wall material with humidity control, Ecocarat.

Type of Business

Proposals of Applied Technology

The structure of termite nests can be used to develop climate-controlled homes and warehouses.

Proposals of Applied Industry

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