Thermal enhancement of windows performance by means of innovative technologies

Abstract

Thermal performances of window frames and glazing represent a field of growing research efforts - worldwide - aiming to reduce energy consumption and achieve indoor comfort. A combination of newly designed super-insulated window frames and innovative glazing technologies may enhance the performance of windows. Aerogel-based “thermal breaks” for window frames, coupled with high-performing glazing, may lead to significant energy saving. In this work, yearly energy use for heating and cooling were assessed in several locations, for building models equipped with innovative technologies, for glazing and frames. The results of numerical simulations confirmed the opportunities offered by new technologies.