Comparative analysis of tubular daylighting device performance with acrylic and glass domes

Abstract

Various materials have been utilized to enhance the performance of Tubular Daylighting Devices (TDDs) while maintaining cost-effectiveness. This study conducted a comparative experimental investigation to expose the relationship between dome materials and TDD performance. The experimentation took place during the summer in an arid region characterized by abundant sunlight and atmospheric pollutants. The results reveal that the glass dome experiences up to 13 % loss in incident daylight, while the acrylic dome demonstrates a more pronounced reduction at 30 %, which emphasizes the critical role of dome material in assessing TDD performance. Both dome types preserve the high-quality characteristics of daylight in terms of its spectrum. Moreover, the study reveals the complex interaction between solar altitude and transmittance ratio, showing how dome design can significantly shape this relationship. The transmittance patterns exhibited by both domes hold promise for optimizing daylight utilization across diverse scenarios, necessitating a careful balance between capturing low-angle sunlight and controlling high-angle sunlight entry. Given the arid environmental conditions of the experiment, the study also examined the impact of dust accumulation on TDDs performance. Over a span of 58 days, exposure to weather led to a notable reduction in illumination transmittance ranging from 26.6 % to 30.3 %. The glass dome displayed a 14 % greater reduction in transmittance ratio compared to the acrylic dome. This study emphasizes the pivotal role of dome materials in shaping TDD performance. The insights garnered from this research serve as a valuable guide for designing TDDs that maximize their potential in various applications and environmental contexts.