International Journal Evolving Sustainable and Renewable Energy Solutions
Evaluation of the Influence of Radiative Thermal Parameters on Thermal and Visual Urban Comfort
Abstract
Abdelilah Zyane and Herve Pron
In the context of the urban energy transition, this article presents a joint evaluation of the radiative properties of urban materials and thermo-visual perception, based on an integrated modeling of light and thermal exchanges. Solar radiation reflection is simulated using surface albedo values to analyse light diffusion, diffuse illuminance, shading patterns, and glare risk. Thermal impacts are assessed through the mean radiant temperature (MRT), determined by surface emissivity and temperature. The urban radiative balance incorporates shortwave and longwave fluxes (Kdown, Kup, Ldown, Lup) and is complemented by shading indices to evaluate the influence of urban morphology on thermal stress reduction. Finally, visual comfort is assessed using natural glare indicators adapted to urban environments, notably the Daylight Glare Index (DGI) and the Daylight Glare Probability (DGP).