Latticed aluminum shelters to help coastal Peruvians in climate emergencies

The worsening effects of global warming make people living on the Peruvian coast even more vulnerable to natural disasters and harsh weather conditions. Since many dwellings in the region can't withstand severe earthquakes and rising sea levels, students at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP) have developed a pop-up emergency shelter that addresses the economic, climatic and technological variables of Peru's coastal communities.

The pop-up modules are based on a mechanism for splitting aluminum foil, with an independent reflective and insulating flake-like layer placed on top. The structures, named La Matriz, are easily deployed, lightweight, durable, and allow for a quick response to any emergency situations. They can also be used as a temporary housing solution for people waiting for their houses to be replaced.

The self-supporting structures distribute loads radially and consist of a lattice of plates joined at the upper and lower ends. The sections of the sheets thicken as the loads get higher and transfers them through metal profiles embedded into the floor. The cover has an insulating layer of foam that reduces heat loss, while a thick aluminized layer on the outside reflects solar radiation. Some “petals” can be opened to allow cross ventilation and maintain stable temperatures.