When the University of Massachusetts at Amherst broke ground for its new Life Science Laboratory in the summer of 2010, it launched the construction of a $ 156.5 million facility equipped for cutting-edge scientific research, designed to bring together researchers from different fields to work on initiatives ranging from developing biofuels and clean energy to drug design. Phase 1 of the building project, completed in March 2013, houses large, flexible laboratory space, and features energy-efficient building systems and a high performance envelope.
Incorporating sustainable design into the 310,000 square foot Phase 1 facility was key to the building’s creation. As a result, the LSL includes a variety of systems that will qualify it for LEED Silver certification—perhaps even LEED Gold. One system is the Schöck Isokorb Type S (for steel-to-steel connections), a load-bearing and thermal insulating connection. To meet the project’s energy efficiency goals, more than 248 Isokorb elements were installed at structural steel beam connections, supporting the glazed canopy covering the 310-foot walkway along the building’s facade. Isokorb provides a structural thermal break connection at the canopy which helps retain energy in the building while also preventing condensation, and mold which could cause damage to the interior finishes.