A literature review of curtain wall systems, thermal performance, testing methods, standards, and emerging glazing technologies for high-performance commercial building envelopes.
This National Research Council of Canada client report reviews commercial curtain wall systems as part of the High Performance Roofing and Walls Technologies project. It examines stick, unitized, and structural glazing systems; curtain wall components; air, heat, rain, snow, and water vapor control; the application of the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings; laboratory and field testing; computer modeling; and thermal optimization methods.
The report also surveys advanced fenestration and facade technologies, including low-emissivity coatings, dynamic glazing, vacuum glazing, aerogels, double-skin systems, building-integrated photovoltaics, solar thermal curtain walls, adaptive facades, and improved frame and spacer designs. It is supported by references to academic research, industry guides, and applicable North American standards.
Application Scope: Building envelope design, commercial curtain wall engineering, facade performance evaluation, energy-efficient construction, fenestration research, laboratory and field testing, and building energy modeling.
