Thermo-environmental performance of polycarbonate materials as a glazing substitute in hot climates

Buildings consume substantial energy, primarily for cooling and heating, resulting in equivalent CO2 emissions. Proper building envelope design in hot climates is crucial for reducing heat transmission, especially in transparent glazed-dominated envelopes with low thermal insulation compared to opaque walls. Compared to conventional glass, this study investigates the impact resistance, thermal performance, and environmental impact of polycarbonate (PC) sheets used as exterior glazing for windows and skylights. The study conducted literature reviews, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measurements, and energy simulations of PC alternatives using a hotel in Madinah. Findings indicate that all PC alternatives' thermal and environmental performance performed better than ordinary glass, reducing total energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Single glazing decreased energy from 1% to 15%, double glazing from 1% to 19%, and triple glazing from 1% to 20% as window glazing. Skylight glazing also lowered overall energy use and gas emissions, with single glazing reducing 2% to 28%, double glazing 3% to 42%, and triple glazing 4% to 49%. Furthermore, the 25mm 9 wall X-Structure PC sheet performed best for windows and skylights in all glazing systems (single, double, and triple). The PC sheets' thickness and section composition affect thermal and environmental performance.