Improving the thermal performance of the transparent building envelope: finite element analysis of possible techniques to reduce the U-value of the glassblocks

U-value of glazed elements is often a critical issue because these components, due to their small thickness and to the poor resistance of the glass and frame materials, cause very relevant heat fluxes. This paper presents an investigation on the thermal properties of a particular glazed component: the glassblock. Generally standard glassblocks have high U- values in comparison to the maximum values allowed by energy efficiency standards for glazed surfaces. This paper reports a summary of possible solutions that could improve the performances of the glassblock. A set of new configurations of the glassblock has been defined by schematic models and their overall thermal resistance has been assessed by the means of Finite Element software. The resulting performances are presented in terms of the global thermal transmittance of the modified glassblocks, also considering the effects of sealing and mortar. The paper also shows some significant potential improvements to address new production lines.