Performance Evaluation of Thermotropic Glazing in Mixed-Ventilated Residential Buildings


Thermotropic (TT) glazing has demonstrated strong energy-saving potential in air-conditioned office buildings located in hot climates. However, its applicability and performance in mixed-ventilated residential buildings—particularly when assessed using the adaptive thermal comfort model—remain insufficiently explored. This study addresses this gap by evaluating TT glazing performance across multiple building performance indicators in residential contexts.

Simulation Model Development and Validation

A comprehensive building performance simulation model was developed and validated using experimental data to ensure reliability. The validated model enabled accurate assessment of TT glazing behavior under varying climatic and operational conditions, forming a robust foundation for comparative performance analysis against conventional double-clear glazing.

Evaluation Framework for Mixed-Ventilated Buildings

The study employed a multi-dimensional evaluation framework incorporating available hours of natural ventilation, energy consumption, thermal comfort during air-conditioned periods, and daylighting performance. This holistic approach aligns with adaptive thermal comfort principles and reflects real-world residential building operation more effectively than fixed comfort models.

Climatic Context and Case Study Configuration

Performance assessments were conducted for south-facing living rooms in residential buildings across five representative Chinese climate zones. Multiple TT glazing configurations with varying transition temperatures were analyzed to capture climate-sensitive responses and regional performance variability.

Energy and Thermal Comfort Performance Analysis

Results indicate that glazing type and TT transition temperature have minimal influence on annual natural ventilation availability. Lower transition temperature TT glazing achieved greater energy savings in warmer climates such as Xiamen and Kunming. Across all climate zones, thermal comfort during air-conditioning periods showed minimal variation; however, TT glazing slightly improved high-level comfort (Level I) in Kunming and Xiamen compared to traditional double glazing.

Daylighting Performance and Design Implications

TT glazing significantly enhanced daylight performance, with sUDI300–3000 lx (50%) values exceeding those of conventional double-clear glazing by up to 23.50%. These findings highlight TT glazing’s potential to simultaneously support visual comfort, reduce cooling demand, and maintain adaptive thermal comfort in mixed-ventilated residential buildings.

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#SmartGlazing
#SustainableFacade
#ClimateResponsiveDesign
#IndoorEnvironmentalQuality
#LowEnergyBuildings
#PassiveDesign
#BuildingEnvelope
#ThermalComfortAnalysis
#SUDI
#GreenBuildingTechnology
#ResidentialEnergy
#BuildingSimulation

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