Analysis of Nano Silica Aerogel Based Glazing Effect on the Solar Heat Gain and Cooling Load in a School under Different Climatic Conditions

Abstract

Demand for energy-efficient school buildings, which form a major part of public buildings, is growing in Iran. Window insulation is required to reduce the amount of energy wasted through openings. This study investigates the effect of double-glazing with aerogel insulation compared to a 3 mm glazing pane and a double-glazing window in terms of solar gain and cooling load. The case studies are primary schools in Yazd (hot-dry climate), Bushehr (hot-humid climate), and Zanjan (cold climate). Numerical simulations of a two-story school are performed to calculate solar gain and cooling load. The use of the aerogel glazing system in Yazd resulted in a reduction of 73% of the solar gain and about 33% of cooling loads compared to a simple glazing window; if compared to a double-glazing standard window, the reductions are of about 56% and 16%, respectively for solar gains and cooling consumptions. Also, the use of aerogel glazing in Bushehr allows a reduction of about 64% in terms of solar gain and 27% for cooling when compared to simple glazing. By using the aerogel in Zanjan school the solar gain decreased by about 62% and cooling loads of about 22% when compared to a single layer of glazing.