Experimental evaluation of radiant ceiling panels in office building perimeter zones

Abstract

Lightweight and modular radiant ceiling panels are attracting increasing interest from researchers, project owners, and designers. However, their thermal performance and capacity to deliver comfort in perimeter office zones remain underexplored. This study evaluates the performance of a prototype lightweight radiant ceiling panel system in a test chamber constructed in Victoria, Australia, to emulate a north-facing perimeter office space. The system, designed for both heating and cooling, was assessed through two cooling test runs and one heating test run. Results show that the panels are highly responsive, thermally effective, and capable of maintaining thermal comfort, particularly under cooling conditions. The system achieved average capacities of 95 W/m² in cooling and 85 W/m² in heating. In cooling mode, it successfully countered perimeter solar heat gains while maintaining appropriate comfort levels. Heating, though viable, responded more slowly and produced significant vertical air temperature gradients, potentially causing local discomfort. To mitigate this, supplementary mechanical ventilation is recommended. While broadly consistent with prior research, the study highlights the need for at least three test runs in both heating and cooling to improve generalizability. Future experiments with an upgraded heat pump and improved storage tank are planned to validate and extend these findings.