Study of solar walls — validating a simulation model

The aim of this article is to present the results of a comparative study of four different types of solar wall. These results have been obtained using a numerical simulation model. In order to validate the model, an extensive experimental study has been conducted on a composite solar wall. The first part of the article is devoted to the particular features of the four solar wall configurations, followed by a description of the experimental installation, the measurements and study of the various modes of thermal transfer necessary for the model to be validated. The third section begins with a brief presentation of the principle used to develop this model, continuing with the validation phase. The model is then used to study the energy efficiency of solar walls in different locations and under different climatic conditions. This is followed by an analysis of the way in which they release the energy supply, and their performance during the summer period. The results of this study are fundamental in helping architects or project managers to choose the best suited configuration for each type of building.