COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THERMAL PROPERTIES OF SOME COMMON ROOFING MATERIALS IN NIGERIA
Abstract
The term “thermal properties” refers to a material’s attributes that define the substance and are temperature dependant. The protection of those who live and work in the environment is the most crucial aspect of building design. The research project identified a few typical roofing materials utilized in Nigerian building architecture.The samples include covered stone, coated stone, and coated aluminum. The investigation was conducted utilizing the Frankz-Weidman principle and Ohm’s law. Thermal conductivity, thermal absorptivity, thermal diffusivity, thermal resistivity, and specific heat capacity were the thermal parameters that were examined. with a view to determining their viability as roofing materials in Nigerian building design based on local temperature and weather. According to the findings, stone coated materials have the lowest thermal conductivity, thermal absorptivity, and specific heat capacity as well as the highest thermal diffusivity and thermal resistivity. In contrast, zinc has the highest thermal conductivity, absorptivity, and specific heat capacity. Thermal conductivity, thermal absorption, thermal diffusivity, thermal resistivity, and specific heat capacity of aluminum coated are within the range of both samples. Therefore, zinc may be suggested for roofing of buildings where temperature is low and stone coated material may be suggested for roofing of structures where temperature is high. Aluminium material may be suggested for use in a variety of standard temperatures.
First Chapter Introduction
1.1 The Study’s Background
In most development plans for underdeveloped countries like Nigeria, the provision of housing is prioritized over other social amenities (Chukwucha and Owate, 2002). The safety of those who reside in and use a building from hazardous weather is one of its core criteria. Therefore, the goal of environmental building design is to create an interior space that is both efficient and comfortable (Camilleri, 2000).
To achieve an ideal layout that responds to environmental changes efficiently to lessen their influence, the building envelope’s design is essential. Every environmental assessment must take into account energy-related characteristics and evaluate the pertinent building envelope parameters. Significant changes are made to a building’s interior atmosphere and energy needs as a result of solar energy. 2006 (Lattimer & Ouelletes).
Radiant barriers, which lessen the heat flux through radiation, are one technique to limit the heat flux. The majority of construction materials, in particular roofing materials, are efficient heat conductors. For roofing in new buildings, sheet metal made of materials like metal and tile is frequently employed.
Knowing the thermal characteristics of various roofing materials is crucial when choosing the kind of material to be used in the construction of a passively or self-cooled building design. (Michael, et al., 2008; Etuk, et al., 2008)
However, the majority of roofing systems used in the formal and residential sectors are wood or metal truss systems with tile or profiled steel roofing; these roofing systems are typically complemented by a plasterboard ceiling, as these roof assemblies are required by regulations to be insulated.
To meet the demands for thermal resistance, thermal insulation is therefore put above the ceiling. The necessary heat resistance can be obtained by using thermally insulating board products, reflecting foil layers to generate air voids, or extra layers of fiber loft insulation.(South Africa’s Safintra Roofing and Steel, 2016).
Recent research has revealed that the design of roofing materials for buildings does not adequately account for climate and environmental considerations, particularly with regard to the selection of roofing materials to be employed. These circumstances would result in higher energy costs for heating and cooling buildings, which would have an impact on efficiency, comfort, and health. Thus, it is crucial to conduct sufficient study on the thermal characteristics of various roofing materials.
1.2 Purpose and Goals
This study aims to test and compare the thermal characteristics of a few popular roofing materials used in Nigerian building design.
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