Integrating physical experiments with computational fluid dynamics to transform mosque minarets into efficient solar chimneys

Hesham H Awad; Mahmoud Desouki

doi:10.1038/s41598-024-59589-0

Integrating physical experiments with computational fluid dynamics to transform mosque minarets into efficient solar chimneys

Sci Rep. 2024 Apr 27;14(1):9721. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-59589-0.

Authors

Hesham H Awad¹, Mahmoud Desouki²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Menoufeia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt.
² Department of Architectural Engineering, Nile Higher Institute for Engineering and Technology, Mansoura, Egypt. mahmouddesouki@nilehi.edu.eg.

Abstract

This study explores the potential of repurposing mosque minarets as solar chimneys in hot arid regions to facilitate natural ventilation and diminish the reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. Originating as a means to call the faithful to prayer, minarets have become iconic landmarks within Islamic cities. This research focuses on Cairo, Egypt, as a representative hot arid environment. The paper traces the evolution of the minaret, underscoring the variations in form that influence the experimental design. The investigation proceeded in two stages: the construction of physical mosque models with variably positioned minarets for laboratory testing, ensuring standardized measurements, followed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for comparison. Findings indicate that mosque minarets can be effectively adapted for passive ventilation, with their performance significantly influenced by orientation and placement. This study concludes that traditional mosque minarets offer a viable, sustainable option for passive cooling in hot climates.

Keywords: CFD; Computational simulation; Mosque minaret; Natural ventilation; Passive ventilation; Solar chimney; Sustainability.