Assessment of the effectiveness and practical feasibility of glass solar chimney walls by open frame in Thailand

Abstract

This research will assess the effectiveness of glass solar chimney wall by open frame (GSCW-O) and compare it with one-layer glass wall (OLGW) in Thailand. The results showed that the use of a GSCW-O can reduce the inside temperature compared with that of OLGW by around 2–4℃ annually, providing heat transfer to the outside, as well as limiting the relative humidity (RH) to 60%, which protects against the occurrence of fungi that cause allergies. The research also found that GSCW-O results in 10–20% less energy consumption when compared to OLGW. In addition being five times cheaper than insulation glass, the payback period for GSCW-O is only 5–6 years. The questionnaire results were satisfactory and proved GSCW-O is very good in practice, pleasing in design, and providing significant energy savings. Testing of hydroponic cultivation in a GSCW house also showed satisfactory growth with a lack of pests, resulting from controlled temperature, humidity, and protection from the elements. For a tropical climate such as Thailand’s, GSCW-O is a suitable design for the reduction in energy consumption and for sustainable architecture.

Practical application This research provides helpful information on glass solar chimney wall by open frame for both the owners and developers by adopting an energy efficient building for sustainable energy conservation. For tropical country like Thailand, glass solar chimney wall by open frame is a suitable design and the best alternative for saving energy and global environmental conservation in the building industry.