Influence of geometric design parameters of double skin façade on its thermal and fluid dynamics behavior: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Double skin façade (DSF) has become an essential architectural element in modern buildings. Its attractive appearance, better thermal and visual comfort, less energy consumption than double glazing systems make it an appropriate option for achieving net-zero energy buildings. The performance of the DSF system depends upon its geometric design parameters, thermo-physical-optical properties, and aerodynamics characteristics. In the present review article, experimental and numerical studies on the DSF system have been reported discussing the influence of geometric design parameters on heat transfer and fluid dynamics occurring in DSF system. The energy, exergy, exergoeconomic, and enviroeconomic (4E) based analytical analysis on the DSF system have also been discussed to analyze its overall performance, payback period, economic feasibility, and environmental impact. The present review article signifies a link between the geometric design parameters of the DSF system, heat, and fluid dynamic behavior and its overall performance. Among all parameters, shading devices and optical properties of glazings are found to be the main driving factors that significantly impact the heat transfer and fluid behavior in DSF. Combined interaction of ventilation rate and the air cavity depth profoundly affect its overall performance. However, the interaction between more than two geometric parameters is still need to be investigated numerically and experimentally. In conclusion, this review article also summarizes previous studies performed on the DSF system. The present review article may be helpful for researchers in the field of building science and architects to understand the fundamental science behind the DSF system to improve its overall performance.