Effect of using PCMs and shading devices on the thermal performance of buildings in different Algerian climates. A simulation-based optimization

Abdelkader Sarri*, Djamel Bechki, Hamza Bouguettaia, Saleh Nasser Al-Saadi, Slimane Boughali, Mohammed M. Farid

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The use of phase change materials (PCMs) in the building envelope has emerged as an attractive passive design strategy that can be used to improve the energy performance of buildings. This paper discusses the effect of using PCMs on the thermal performance of shaded and unshaded lightweight structures in different Algerian climatic zones. A simulation-based optimization was carried out by coupling EnergyPlus and GenOpt tool, to determine the optimum melting temperature of PCM when integrated into the building envelope. Results show that the shaded building with PCM is a preferred design model in majority of Algerian climates when it is free floating. The annual percentage of thermal comfort ranges between 44.13% and 59.11% in cities where the PCMs showed positive potential. Furthermore, the optimization results show that the PCMs achieved a modest cooling energy saving for mechanically-ventilated buildings in summer, especially in hot-dry climate with optimal melting points equal to or close to 28 °C. The control of solar heat gain by using shading devices is critical to enhance the thermal performance in summer. In winter, the PCMs achieved a noticeable reduction in the heating energy requirements where it reached a maximum of 63.23% in the city of Tamanrasset. The shading device is not recommended during the winter because it hinders the use of solar radiation for passive heating. During this season, the optimal melting points of PCMs are generally bounded between 18.50 °C and 21.25 °C. When considering both periods, the most advantageous design varies from climatic zone to another.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)375-389
Number of pages15
JournalSolar Energy
Volume217
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 15 2021

Keywords

  • EnergyPlus
  • Extreme weather periods
  • GenOpt
  • Optimization
  • Phase change materials (PCMs)
  • Shading devices

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • General Materials Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Effect of using PCMs and shading devices on the thermal performance of buildings in different Algerian climates. A simulation-based optimization'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this