![Sample our Engineering & Technology journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5933/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Engineering-Tech.jpg"})
SYNOPSIS
The paper investigates the performance of a new configuration of Modified Trombe Wall named the Partially-Glazed Modified Trombe Wall (PG-MTW), which aims to decrease heat accumulation, induce higher natural ventilation and provide daylight for housing. The PG-MTW is composed of a masonry wall which includes transparent material, air gap, and a combination of aluminum-foiled gypsum board and acrylic panel. Two PG-MTW units were built: the first uses commercial glass block whereas the other uses double glazing block. The surface area of each unit was about 2 m2. They were integrated into the south-facing wall of a small house of volume about 25 m3. The performance of PG-MTW units were compared experimentally to a conventional Modified Trombe Wall (MTW) of the same surface area installed close to the two PG-MTW units. To this end, the room was divided into three compartments corresponding to each wall configuration using plywood panels. The results of the study showed that the PG-MTW with glass block of 0.36 m2 surface area (3 rows) induced the highest air flow rate and daylight, about 60–80 m3 h−1 and 350–550 lux respectively. Such airflow rate is about 30% higher than that induced by the MTW. The increase in room temperature of the PG-MTW compartment was not significant and did not exceed 1°C when compared to the MTW compartment. The indoor temperature is 3–4°C below ambient which is extremely interesting.
In conclusion, a one row glazed PG-MTW which provides sufficient daylight and ventilation rate is most economically viable for integration into building design.