Thermal Performance of Vertical Courtyard System in Office Buildings Under Typical Hot Days in Hot-Humid Climate Area: A Case Study

Abstract

Due to the different types of courtyards in vertical courtyard system (VCS), their impacts on thermal performance in office buildings may vary. To better understand this issue, this paper investigates the thermal performance impact of three typical vertical courtyards. A field case study was conducted in VCSs during two typical extreme hot days under hot-humid climate conditions. The results show that the vertical courtyards have significant cooling effects under hot-humid climatic conditions. Via testing on linear, integrated, and rooftop courtyard with fusion layout, the fusion one has an obviously positive impact on air temperature reduction (4.3 °C). Compared with the linear and integrated courtyards, the maximum air temperature difference of fusion layout is around 1.6 °C. The thermal radiation environment of the fusion layout was better than that of the other two (linear and integrated). Besides, the surface temperature of the pavements (wood panel) in the vertical courtyards can reach 47 °C, while the vegetation can lower it by 8 °C under the same weather conditions. These findings show that the courtyard with fusion layout is more suitable for extreme hot weather conditions.