Maryland Chemistry Research Building Certified LEED Gold

The University of Maryland, College Park Chemistry Research Building has achieved LEED-NC Gold certification.

Given the significant energy demands of chemistry buildings, sustainability was at the forefront of design decisions. Solar shading and ceramic frit coatings on the exterior envelope help control indoor temperatures, increase energy efficiency, preserve occupant access to natural light, and become integral to the building’s exterior character. The conference room is thoughtfully positioned above the transparent Bio NMR facility, providing shading for the temperature-sensitive equipment below while enabling abundant views from the adjacent campus passage into this important core facility.

Optimal energy performance is achieved using key features such as neutral-air dedicated outdoor air systems, high-efficiency heat recovery, low-temperature hot water, and chilled beams. Combined with the passive exterior shading. The result of these measures is a 75% reduction in Energy Use Intensity (EUI). The Chemistry Research Building is designed to achieve operational carbon neutrality by utilizing waste heat harvested at the neighboring Zupnik Hall (also designed by Ballinger) from the adjacent satellite Campus Utility Building, which serves the campus chilled water loop. The novel approach of using heat recovery chillers will reuse this waste and eliminate all fossil fuel use in the building.

By integrating advanced technologies and coupling them with renewable energy sources, these strategies redefine the environmental impact of high-intensity science facilities and contribute to the University’s climate action plan commitment of achieving campus-wide carbon neutrality by 2035.