09-03-2017, 04:21 PM
Underground construction is a viable alternative to conventional design, especially in climates with severe environmental conditions. In this research we analyze the natural ventilation in the underground constructions, focusing on the entrance tunnel and ventilation chimney. We analyze how the differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures influence natural ventilation during periods of high outdoor temperature. The effect of natural ventilation in the cave environment is also studied. To this end, a monitoring plan was designed consisting of 57 sensors strategically placed according to the building's design. The results show the influence of outdoor temperature, ventilation of the chimney and access tunnel on the conditions inside the underground construction. When the outdoor temperature is high, the design of these buildings reduces external fluctuations and the effect on the indoor environment is negligible. Due to poor natural ventilation (even at night), forced ventilation is necessary when a high air exchange ratio is required during the warm period.
