Design, thermal performance & modelling of a ventilated concrete slab coupled with BIPV/T system

This paper presents the design, thermal performance, and modeling of an innovative VCS (ventilated concrete slab) in an energy efficient solar home. This VCS embodies two main functions: thermal energy storage and structure component. It stores the heat from warm air passing through its channels. Outdoor air is heated by a building-integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPV/T) system installed on the roof. The stored heat is released passively into the living space through radiative and convective heat transfer. This VCS also serves as the basement foundation slab. Data recorded from real time operations regarding the slab’s thermal performance is presented. A three-dimensional control volume finite difference thermal model is used to simulate its performance. Data from real time operation is used to validate the model. From the analysis of the recorded data, coupling this VCS with BIPV/T system it is concluded that this is a viable system to enhance the utilization of solar energy