Mist evaporative cooling system with natural ventilation in a semi-outdoor environment: theoretical models, experiments, and thermal simulations

• No prior EnergyPlus model simulates mist cooling in naturally ventilated spaces. • A thermodynamic model for mist cooling with natural ventilation was developed. • The model is implemented in EnergyPlus via a Python plug-in and an ideal system. • Experiments in a semi-outdoor cafeteria validated the model within 0.4°C MAE. • Mist cooling reduced the cafeteria air temperature up to 2.9°C and on average 1.9°C.