Work

Thermal performance evaluation of a double skin Façade with latticework solar protection: a case study in a humid tropical climate (Panama)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In light of the growing energy crisis and the need for more sustainable buildings, passive strategies that were once used to improve thermal comfort are reemerging. These strategies reduce dependence on mechanical air conditioning systems. The facades and elements that compose them are among the determining factors in this behavior. This study, conducted at the University of Panama, analyzes the thermal behavior of lattices applied to a perforated double skin façade (DSF) in a humid tropical climate. The study employed a multi-method approach combining experimental measurements, thermographic images, model calibration, and dynamic simulations using DesignBuilder and EnergyPlus. Thermal data were collected over the course of one year using sensors installed on the experimental façade and supplemented with thermography to characterize surface behavior. Nine architectural hypotheses with different lattice configurations, spatial arrangements, and cross ventilation were evaluated. The results showed that incorporating lattices alone does not guarantee adequate thermal performance. Without effective cross ventilation, double skin facades can induce overheating phenomena by increasing solar radiation capture and the accumulation of internal thermal load, generating high thermal inertia with slow dissipation—a clearly unfavorable behavior in humid tropical climates, such as in Panama. The study concludes that construction elements such as solar protection latticework should be designed using an integrated approach that considers geometry, material, thickness, orientation, and interaction with natural ventilation in order to optimize thermal performance and reduce dependence on mechanical systems.

Source: Energy and Buildings

DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2025.116747

Authors: Rosnery Castillo-DR, Oriol Paris-Viviana, Montserrat Bosch

Institutions: Universidad de Panamá, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya

Language: English

Topic: Solar Energy Systems and Technologies

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,260