IMPORTANCE OF THE THERMAL CAPACITY OF SOAPSTONE IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

Steatite, also known as soapstone, has high thermal resistance, low electrical conductivity and high chemical resistance, which positively influences its use in different branches.The use of materials with high thermal inertia will reduce energy expenditure on air conditioning, contributing to economic and environmental sustainability.The general aim of this work is to analyze the importance of the thermal capacity of soapstone in the construction sector, which can be achieved through specific objectives: Investigate the physical and chemical properties of soapstone that influence its thermal capacity, evaluate the main applications of soapstone in construction, focusing on cladding, fireplaces, stoves and flooring; Identify the benefits of using soapstone in the energy efficiency of buildings, considering the reduction in consumption of artificial air conditioning systems; Discuss the relevance of soapstone in sustainable architecture projects and its contribution to saving natural resources; point out challenges and limitations related to the use of soapstone in the construction sector .This was a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study based on a review of the literature on the subject.The results showed that the installation of soapstone fireplaces can reduce the use of gas and electricity by up to 15%, 75% of consumers who use soapstone in fireplaces report a considerable reduction in the use of electric heaters.the use of soapstone in construction reduces the demand for non-renewable materials by up to 30%, concluding that soapstone is a promising resource for the construction industry.