Dynamic physical model for a solar chimney

The aim of this research is to investigate the theoretical usefulness of a solar chimney with thermal inertia applied to the Mediterranean climates, offering nocturnal ventilation benefits. A mathematical dynamical model is proposed to evaluate the energy performance of a solar chimney with 24 cm concrete wall as storage surface for solar radiation. The results obtained with the proposed model are coherent with several models response and experiments reported on solar chimneys. As well, the difference of the proposed model to others is the incorporation of an unsteady state and the inclusion of thermal inertia. The results show that for a 2 m height and width of air channel of 14.5 cm, 0.011 kg/s air mass flow rate is obtained for 450 W/m2. The 24 cm thickness concrete wall, reaches its greater temperature 2 h later with respect to the maximum ambient temperature, maintaining its temperature over the beginning of the night, so nocturnal ventilation is achieved. The model shows the interest in continuing investigating on this cooling techniques and to built a solar chimney with thermal inertia for future experimental research. 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.