The present paper aims to investigate, in a systematic way, and by using both experimental and theoretical tools, the potential of night ventilation techniques when applied to full scale buildings, under different structure, design, ventilation, and climatic characteristics. Also, to investigate the impact and the limitations of night ventilation techniques regarding the thermal behavior of various types of buildings. Real scale measurements in three buildings operating under free-floating and air conditioning conditions have been performed.
Building products have been shown to affect the perceived indoor air quality in buildings. Consequently, there is a need for characterizing the emissions from building products in sensory terms to evaluate their impact on the perceived air quality. Determining the exposure-response relationship between concentration of the emission from a building product and human response is recommended. A practical method is proposed based on an air-dilution system connected to the exhaust of a ventilated small-scale test chamber.
The author maintains that the testing methodology of ASHRAE 62-1989R, mired in a swamp of controversy and "continuous maintenance," may need some fresh air.
The need for energy efficient buildings is outlined, and the principal issues relating to commercial developments are discussed. The importance of natural cooling is highlighted, and the associated principle are examined. Some ways in which this can be achieved in conventional steel framed construction are presented. The suggestions include passive systems which rely simply on exposing sufficient thermal capacity of the building fabric, and active systems which provide greater control and improved performance. They represent an application of technology for sustainable development.
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