Impact of summer glass curtain walls thermal reflection on microclimate of surrounding environments

Abstract:

To understand and investigate the impact of summer thermal reflection from glass curtain walls on the microclimate of surrounding environments, and to raise awareness of this rarely acknowledged issue, which is often overlooked due to its invisibility, this study employed optical simulation, scale modeling, and field measurements to identify reflection zones and quantify thermal reflection effects. Firstly, the principles, variation patterns, and potential hazards of thermal reflection from curtain walls are explored using optical mirror reflection principles. Secondly, taking Chunxi Road Plaza and its surrounding curtain wall buildings in Chengdu as an example, optical simulation and experimental modeling methods were used to determine the hourly positions of thermal reflection areas on the square. Through on-site thermal environment testing and comparative analysis, the impact of curtain wall thermal reflection was quantified. Finally, a series of strategies were proposed to control curtain wall thermal reflection and mitigate its hazards. The results indicate that compared to normal areas, the average radiant temperature in thermal reflection areas was higher by 4 to 13 ℃, air temperature was elevated by 1 to 2 ℃, humidity was reduced by 5% to 10%, and the universal thermal climate index was increased by 2 to 5 ℃. These findings confirm the significant influence of summer curtain wall thermal reflection on microclimate environments and pedestrian thermal comfort. Therefore, incorporation of thermal reflection management strategies into urban planning and curtain wall design is imperative to reduce its negative impacts.