A STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SOLAR FILMS ON THERMAL PERFORMANCE OF A BUILDING ENVELOPE

Abstract

Glazing systems play a big role in determining the thermal performance of a building. It comprises of choosing the right type of glass in conjunction with other solar control solutions such as solar films, external shading devices etc. to strike a balance of aesthetics, thermal comfort, visibility and energy efficiency.

This research aims to study solar films in particular on how effective they are at reducing solar radiation and improving thermal performance based on the metrics of thermal conditions. The study will include measurements of thermal conditions with various equipment, analyzing collected thermal data and see the differences between two scenarios - a glazing system that uses/does not use solar films. Conditions of both scenarios would be kept fixed and similar to ensure accuracy of the dataset.

Readings of thermal data will be continuously logged automatically in intervals of a minute with the exception of heat flux (manually) and relevant dimensions of the elements of E1A Research Room will be measured manually with reference to the floor plans.

Datasets collected will be extrapolated into time series graphs for better understanding and clear visualization of data. Calculations will be made using measured dimensions to derive the Envelope Thermal Transfer Value (ETTV).

Further analysis on both calculated values and datasets to draw a relationship between each factor, to determine whether solar films are effective in improving thermal performance of E1A Research Room or buildings in general, including their limitations.