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Elaiab, Fatima M. (2014) Thermal comfort investigation of multi-storey residential buildings in Mediterranean climate with reference to Darnah, Libya. PhD thesis, University of Nottingham.

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Abstract

The main aim of this research is to investigate occupants’ thermal comfort and energy performance of multi-storey residential buildings in one of the major cities in Libya (Darnah). The work was implemented in stages as follows:

1. Gathering and analysing real weather data from a number of locations in Libya.

2. Gathering and analysing building data from residential multi-storey blocks in Darnah.

3. Conducting preliminary computer analyses using the above information to get a better idea about thermal conditions inside multi-storey block flats in Darnah.

4. Visiting Darnah and collecting real data using specifically designed survey or questionnaire forms to understand and assess how people feel while living inside their flats.

5. Analysing the computer results and field data and trying to come up with solutions to improve existing multi-storey blocks in terms of indoor climate and energy consumption and introducing guidelines for designers of new buildings in Libya.

The subjective data was collected and tabulated by using a questionnaire, which has been widely used and shown to be effective, to determine people's responds through questions modified especially for the comfort purpose. Questionnaires were collected from households of 12 buildings: involving a total of 337 flats. The questionnaires compare the significance of the thermal sensation, the thermal comfort, and the building design. The results show that the thermal comfort is not satisfied, unless modified, and improving take place in these case study buildings. Thus a modification is proposed, the results from the present study show also that the insulation material is essential in this type of climate and can help to reduce up to 63% of heat gain and a reduction of 6 degrees of indoor temperature. Results also indicate that the construction of residential dwellings using existing materials is less conducive to the climatic conditions of hot dry climates and not suitable for the occupants’ requirements of comfort. Human thermal comfort was assessed using the adaptive model, to show that the climate and building’s envelope have a significant impact on human comfort perception and indoor environment. This research is mainly aimed at "explaining" the trends in the energy flows within buildings under the climatic conditions of Mediterranean zones and to establish a comfort zone for occupants within this type of climate. The results should help in the formulation of design guidelines for use in the process of building design by builders, architects and engineers. Also this research is in line with the Libyan’s government aim to make better use of renewable energy sources such as the sun for keeping buildings comfortable for their occupants.

Item Type:	Thesis (University of Nottingham only) (PhD)
Supervisors:	Gadi, M.B.
Subjects:	T Technology > TH Building construction > TH6014 Environmental and sanitary engineering of buildings
Faculties/Schools:	UK Campuses > Faculty of Engineering UK Campuses > Faculty of Engineering > Built Environment
Item ID:	14201
Depositing User:	EP, Services
Date Deposited:	17 Oct 2014 11:52
Last Modified:	15 Dec 2017 15:29
URI:	https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/14201

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