Numerical investigation of a novel photo-thermal synergetic catalytic Trombe wall
Journal
Energy and Buildings
Date Issued
November 1, 2025
DOI
10.1016/j.enbuild.2025.116153
Abstract
Buildings contribute significantly to global carbon emissions, necessitating innovations in façade design to reduce energy consumption. Traditional Trombe walls, despite their thermal efficiency, are limited by single-functionality and inefficiencies when used for other purposes like air purification. This study established a two-dimensional numerical model of a novel Trombe wall system which integrates power generation, space heating, and air purification. The research employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate the performance of the system under varying structural parameters (e.g., airflow channel width and height) and environmental conditions (e.g., solar radiation intensity, inlet temperature, and bioaerosol concentrations). Key findings indicate the optimal channel width maximizes both thermal and sterilization efficiencies, while solar radiation intensity and air inlet temperature significantly affect system performance. The optimal channel width is equal to 0.2 m. Seasonally, the system demonstrates peak efficiency in regions with high solar radiation, achieving a sterilization efficiency of 0.53 and energy utilization rates of up to 52.9 %. This study's contribution lies in the integrated design of photovoltaic and catalytic components, enabling simultaneous energy generation, heating, and air sterilization, thus establishing the way for multi-functional sustainable building façades.