The Relationship Between Surface Temperature of Building Envelope and Ambient Indoor Temperature for Adobe Brick Building: A Case Study of An Adobe Brick Building in Jos - Nigeria

Abstract

The study is focused on determining the relationship between surface temperature of building envelope and ambient indoor temperature for non-plastered Adobe Brick building. In this study, data was obtained by measurement of wall surface temperatures internally, externally and the corresponding ambient temperature of spaces enclosed by these walls at given time intervals. A corresponding but non-linear relationship between the three (3) temperature readings was established with the wall surface temperature being cooler across the temperature spectrum recorded. This temperature lag between wall and ambient temperature increases as the day proceeds and reduces at close of day. The ambient indoor temperature level rise from 30.5^oC min to 38.2^oC max between 8:30am – 2:30pm. This is higher than what has been established by previous research for optimal human performance in living spaces. The research recommends insulated interior walls to control heat gain into the ambient space via walls. Externally, soft landscape elements and change of building orientation can be used to regulate the micro climate. The use of mechanical means of temperature control, albeit non-sustainable, might be used as last resort to make these interior spaces more habitable.

Keywords: Adobe Bricks, Ambient Temperature, Productivity, Sustainability.

DOI: 10.7176/JEES/10-2-12

Publication date: February 29^th 2020