Thermal, energy and life-cycle aspects of a transparent insulation façade: a case study

Research and development in the façade engineering field highlights the need for comprehensive system solutions integrating advanced materials and renewable energy use. Presented study focuses on implementation of Transparent Insulation Materials (TIMs) in a façade concept. The idea is based on sensible use of (renewable) solar energy to reduce the heating demand of buildings. The concept integrates TIMs into a Transparent Insulation Façade (TIF) based on more common "solar wall" or "Trombe wall" systems enhanced with selective absorber (SA) functionalities. The study presents analysis of thermal, solar energy and environmental performance of the concept on a case study basis. Firstly, thermal analysis based on standard calculation is introduced to describe thermal and solar performance of the concepts. Secondly, energy balance calculations are used to compare the concepts with conventional façade systems. Finally, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluating the environmental impacts of the façade concept is introduced. The results show that the proposed concept performs better in both energy consumption and environmental impacts compared to a common facade with external thermal insulation. The TIF has higher heating energy demand than a common façade, however this is offset by up to 178 kWh⋅m⁻²⋅a⁻¹ solar heat gains. The difference in environmental impacts (up to 80%) is also in favour of the TIF. (paper)