A design and assessment of solar chimney of bioclimatic house wall and roof for construction in the housing market of Thailand

• Published in: Building services engineering research & technology 2016-11, Vol.37 (6), p.694-709
• Main Authors: Ratanachotinun, Jaran, Kasayapanand, Nat, Hirunlabh, Jongjit, Visitsak, Sopa, Teekasap, Sombat, Khedari, Joseph
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Construction; Design engineering; Energy conservation; Houses; Roofs; Solar chimneys; Thailand; Walls
• ISSN: 0143-6244; 1477-0849
• DOI: 10.1177/0143624416647761

This research is a design and assessment of a bioclimatic house wall and roof to be constructed in Thailand’s housing market in order to provide information for potential builders as well as the peace of mind of the owner. The research found that a bioclimatic house with a double-layered solar chimney is appropriate for use in Thailand throughout the year. It lowers the average internal temperature of the house by approximately 1–2℃ when compared to the energy-saving material used in a normal building. Bioclimatic construction also creates natural ventilation, heat removal, and can reduce indoor temperature. It also comes with an easy-to-build design to facilitate construction and can save house energy consumption. Practical application: This research provides helpful information of solar chimney wall and roof for both the owners and developers in adopting an energy-efficient house for sustainable energy conservation. A solar chimney of a bioclimatic house is a highly interesting alternative for saving energy in the long term. When properly promoted, it will help save a huge amount of energy throughout Thailand and tropical area, and serve to promote the cause of global environmental conservation into the future.