Conference Agenda

The indoor air quality (IAQ) and energy consumption has been an important concern for the industries. Considering that 70% of energy consumption in buildings is due to HVAC systems, a proposed system consisting of radiative cooling (RC) and pulsating impinging jet ventilation (PIJV) can be coupled for various applications to ensure a thermally comfortable and an enhanced IAQ space without compromising energy consumption. The RC system uses a sequence of copper pipes to circulate cold water through a canopy-to-canopy configuration, a Constructal Law feature to enhance cooling capacity and reduce pumping power, inside a plenum fixed at a wall to absorb sensible heat via thermal radiation and control indoor air temperature. The RC system consists of 19 vertical branches, in direct contact with the inner wall, between 2 horizontal primary pipes where water enter through the top primary pipe, flow uniformly through the vertical branches, then discharge through the bottom pipe. Air will first be supplied to the plenum where it will be pressurized and then impinged to the room surface at intervals with specific frequencies by utilizing a motorized damper through a central inlet on the bottom of the plenum and 56cm above the surface. The experimental setup consists of a room measuring 3m x 3m x 2.9m, with a plenum of 3m wide and 2.44m high and a thickness of 18cm. The temperature and velocity, along with the particles’ concentration, will be measured inside the room to ensure comfortable conditions to the occupants. The experiment examines the cooling capacity and ventilation efficiency of this coupled system by varying parameters such as air inlet frequency and velocity, inlet water temperature, and water flow rate, as well as adjusting the room's heat load to observe the system's response. This method aims to improve cooling efficiency and ventilation performance.

The growing emphasis on healthier indoor environments necessitates the adoption of energy-efficient systems that maintain optimal air quality while reducing energy consumption. This paper explores the integration of advanced Building Management Systems (BMS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) to create energy-efficient indoor environments. Utilizing real-time data and AI-driven analytics, these systems can dynamically adjust HVAC operations, lighting, and ventilation to ensure superior indoor air quality (IAQ) without compromising energy efficiency. Key technical elements include the use of advanced sensors for monitoring IAQ parameters, machine learning algorithms for predictive maintenance, and energy optimization strategies through demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. The paper presents case studies from various projects, highlighting the challenges and solutions in deploying these technologies. Additionally, it discusses the regulatory frameworks and industry standards, such as ASHRAE 62.1 and 90.1, that support the implementation of such systems, emphasizing a holistic approach to building management that prioritizes health and sustainability.

Understanding the current status of indoor air quality is essential to create a baseline as well as to determine suitable improvement strategies for office buildings in India. This study monitors Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in air-conditioned office buildings located in the Warm and Humid climates of India. Short-term IAQ data for one week has been collected from these office buildings located in different Indian cities. Further, key parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, CO2 levels, particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been analyzed and compared with the thresholds defined in national and international standards and guidelines. The outcomes of the study will provide necessary baseline information for the development of guidelines for healthy building practices. This study will also support policymakers, architects, facility managers, and other relevant stakeholders in making informed decisions to optimize occupant well-being in office buildings in warm and humid climatic zones.

Underground transportation facilities are vital for urban mobility, providing efficient connectivity for passengers across various climatic conditions. This research paper aims to assess thermal comfort and determine the rate of natural ventilation in underground transportation halls located in hot climates. By evaluating factors such as temperature, humidity, air velocity, and radiant heat exchange, the research provides insights into the thermal comfort levels experienced by passengers and workers in such environments. In this study, the thermal comfort and natural ventilation was evaluated in the underground transportation hall of Nasser subway station, a major transportation hub in Cairo, Egypt, during the hottest days. Using field measurements and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, the research analyzes the thermal conditions, airflow patterns, and thermal comfort levels in the main hall. The CFD results reveal high average temperatures (35.7°C), stagnant air (0.1-0.32 m/s), and poor thermal comfort (PMV=+3) in the main hall. These unfavorable conditions are linked to increased ambient air temperature, heat stored in construction materials, and natural ventilation rates ranging from 4.3 to 12.6 air changes per hour (ACH). The findings contribute to understanding the challenges of maintaining comfortable and healthy environments in underground transportation hubs, particularly in hot and dry climates. The study proposes strategies to enhance ventilation, mitigate heat gains, and improve thermal comfort, thereby prioritizing passenger well-being and energy efficiency.