Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Architecture Engineering Department, High Institute for Engineering Technology, 21K Cairo-Belbies Rd., Al-Obour, Egypt
2
Architecture Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City,11884, Cairo, Egypt
3
Textile Research and Technology Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki,12622, Giza, Egypt
10.21608/auej.2024.259134.1573
Abstract
Climate change is one of the most critical problems resulting from the emission of harmful gases, including chlorofluorocarbons, which result from the excessive demand for air conditioning to provide thermal comfort in architectural spaces. Approximately 60% of the energy consumed in buildings is through inefficient windows. So, this study aims to reduce heat gain through glass facades, consequently decreasing energy consumption in buildings by minimising air conditioner use. This is achieved by utilising sensitive reactive materials. When this material is applied between glass layers, they react to an external stimulus (electricity) and change colour from light to dark (tinted). This action reduces the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) within the spaces, improving internal temperature and reducing the need for cooling. Conversely, in the absence of the external stimulus (electricity), the glass returns to its natural colour (clear), allowing the entry of solar rays and reducing the need for heating. This, in turn, optimises energy consumption within the building. The research presents several global examples of buildings that use electrochromic reactive smart glass in different climatic regions, similar to Egypt's diverse climatic zones (North Coast Climate, Highlands Climate, and Desert Climate), and calculates the value of WWR for each building, then compares it with the required heat gain coefficient in the Egyptian code for energy efficiency in commercial buildings. The conclusion is that glass provides better efficiency and achieves the code requirements when applied in hot climatic zones.
Special Issue of AEIC 2024 (Sustainable Architecture and Urban Design Session)
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