Performance analysis of the MICRO-V (Multifunctional, Integrated, Climate-responsive, Opaque, and Ventilated) façade with different ventilation modes

Abstract

Climate-responsive facades (CRFs) are a potential solution to respond to transient energy exchanges in buildings to control and enhance the indoor environmental quality (IEQ). In addition to space heating and cooling, adequate ventilation within a thermally comfortable range is critical in new and retrofit constructions, particularly as current high-performance facades maximize airtightness. In this study, an opaque multifunctional CRF (MICRO-V) was investigated to regulate the flow of heat and air into buildings with daily and seasonal responses. This façade is made of phase change materials (PCMs), an adjustable insulation system, and an embedded ventilation unit to provide conditioned fresh air. The effect of different ventilation modes (balanced, only-exhaust, only-supply) on the overall thermal performance of the façade was studied. A CFD simulation study in the context of Toronto, Canada, in the cooling season was performed. The study showed a correlation between increased airspeed and overall heat recovery in the façade, with an average of 75-80% heat recovery between the indoor exhaust air and fresh supply air. The results showed how the façade's operational modes could be adjusted based on the outdoor climate conditions. MICRO-V is a decentralized façade system with simultaneous air supply and exhaust, the findings showed the interconnected behaviour of the components in the façade and how it can provide conditioned fresh air.