Growing Alternative Sustainable Buildings: Facade Testing Device

Abstract

In preparation for the EPA sponsored P3 competition, a team of architects is aiming to develop a thermally efficient fa�ade system to reduce energy consumption in buildings. The fa�ade system is composed of bio-composite shading elements between two transparent polymer panels. We have been asked to design and manufacture a reusable and durable thermal chamber that is able to measure the thermal transmittance and solar heat gain coefficient of various fa�ade designs. These tests will be used to advise the geometric designs of the shading elements to maximize thermal efficiency.