Evaluation of the Comfort and Thermal Performance of a Higher Education Building

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the thermal comfort and performance of a higher education building, with the purpose of analyzing the environmental variables and the building envelope and discuss possible solutions for increasing well-being in the building. Theoretical Framework: This topic presents the main concepts and theories that support the research. The environmental and personal variables that are measured to evaluate thermal comfort inside the building and the quantities used to determine the thermal performance of the constructive elements of the building envelope are described, providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the research. Method: The methodology adopted for this research includes the quantification of environmental comfort indicators PPD (Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied) and PMV (Predicted Mean Vote), as well as the evaluation of building elements using the Simplified Method of ABNT standard 15.575 in relation to thermal performance. Data was collected by measuring environmental and personal variables, as well as specifying the construction materials used in the building. Results and Discussion: The results showed that the PMV and PPD indices indicated moderate to intense thermal discomfort. Thermal performance was unsatisfactory, with thermal transmittance values higher than recommended. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the constructive aspects of buildings influence their thermal performance and consequently the thermal comfort of the people inside. Originality/Value: This study contributes to literature by assessing constructive elements in the envelope of educational buildings for thermal comfort purposes.