Patel Jay Nileshbhai

CT3596

This study explores the thermal performance of AAC blocks and red brick walls, focusing on how small modifications to external surfaces can reduce heat gain without altering internal wall assemblies. By targeting facade-level adjustments, the research aims to improve energy efficiency and thermal comfort in buildings while maintaining structural integrity. The research framework employs a structured methodology, including an introduction, scope, objectives, literature review, experimental setup, data collection, and analysis. The literature review identifies surface temperature, time lag, material properties, and insulation quality as critical factors influencing thermal behavior and energy loss. The experimental setup involves constructing 1x1x1 meter cubes using AAC blocks and red bricks, equipped with temperature sensors on all four external walls to monitor inside and outside surface temperatures. The cubes are covered with ventilated plywood to ensure airflow, and environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and wind speed are recorded. Data is collected at regular intervals, verified with an infrared thermometer gun, and supplemented with datasets from previous studies. Key metrics, such as thermal lag and decrement factor, are analyzed, with data represented visually through graphs and charts. Results indicate that AAC blocks outperform red bricks in reducing heat gain. Facade modifications further enhance thermal performance, allowing thinner AAC walls to achieve comparable or superior efficiency to thicker red brick walls. Challenges during the study include inconsistent solar radiation due to monsoon weather, site-specific obstructions like nearby buildings and trees, and the variability of open environment testing conditions. These limitations are acknowledged to provide context for the findings. The study concludes that AAC blocks, combined with strategic facade modifications, offer significant potential for reducing heat gain and optimizing building energy efficiency. The research highlights the importance of targeted external surface adjustments in sustainable construction practices. Click here for detailed Report, Presentation.