CONCEPT, DEVELOPMENT AND THERMAL CHARACTERIZATION OF AN UNGLAZED SOLAR THERMAL COLLECTOR FOR FAÇADE INTEGRATION

Abstract

In this work, an innovative solar thermal collector system is presented for façade integration. The developed modular unglazed solar collector system is designed for low temperature energy capture, and compatible with a heat pump based combined solar thermal system. The main advantage of this system is that the lack of a glazed surface allows for its integration into common façade systems without architectural implications. Modularity, color or textures are unaffected by the integration process. This work presents the development of the collector, together with its thermal modeling and experimental assessment. Keywords: Solar collector, Façade integration, Construction, Solar systems, Ventilated façade.