Multipurpose characterization of glazing systems with silica aerogel: In-field experimental analysis of thermal-energy, lighting and acoustic performance

Thermal-energy, acoustic and lighting performance of innovative glazing systems with aerogel inclusion is evaluated through in-field experiments. The study is carried out by monitoring two dedicated prototype buildings located in central Italy, and the consistency of results with in-lab analyses is investigated. Analyses showed that aerogel can decrease energy consumption for heating by up to 50% in winter, and its capability to keep the thermal zone warmer even several days after that the heating system is switched off. Acoustic analyses confirmed in-lab measurements, showing aerogel capability to increase the façade acoustic insulation index by 3dB. Lighting analyses showed aerogel effect to lower the daily average illuminance level by about 10% during sunny days. In cloudy weather conditions, with low level of solar radiation and indoor illuminance, the effect was relatively higher. In those cases when windows include shading elements such as protruding roof or deep window pad, aerogel effect was not clearly identified through continuous monitoring. The results of this integrated in-field experimental campaign showed that aerogel filled glazing cameras represent effective and innovative solutions for energy saving in winter, useful for improving acoustic façade performance with limited penalties in terms of daylighting.