An optimization of thermal, visual and energy indicators for retrofit with photobioreactors in the mediterranean climate

¹ Department of Architecture. Faculty of Architecture. Dokuz Eylül University. Izmir. Turkey
² Dokuz Eylül University, Energy Application and Research Center (EUAM), Izmir, Turkey

^* Corresponding author: yaman.yonca@ogr.deu.edu.tr

Abstract

There is a need for innovative products that cause fewer carbon emissions in the construction industry. Photobioreactor (PBR) façade elements can produce microalgae for biomass, food, or raw materials for various industries. The harvested algae also catch carbon during growth. Its use as a façade element affects the thermal and visual comfort of occupants and the energy consumption of the integrated building. However, very few built examples and physical model development are in progress. This paper deals with integrating PBR to retrofit the south façade for an office building in the Mediterranean climate. It uses multi-criteria optimization simulations to increase occupants’ thermal comfort while decreasing total energy consumption and increasing visual comfort. Pareto-optimal results show the effects of various design variables, including PBR properties, heating and cooling setpoints, wall and insulation material and thickness, and window-to-wall ratio (WWR). The results show that alternative retrofit options are better than the existing building for all optimization targets. The heating and cooling setpoints are the most effective design parameters in determining energy consumption, while PBR properties affected the thermal and visual comfort the most. In conclusion, more research is necessary to realize PBR retrofits now, but preliminary results show promise.