Student Research Reports

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The goal of this project is the active participation of students in choosing the most energetically adequate color of the school's facade, by comparing the surface temperature measurement data of different colors and substrates of the facade. The measurement of the surface temperature of the white and dark gray facade with and without insulation was carried out at four measuring stations, two at our school, and two at a residential building in the immediate vicinity of the school. All student measurements were made during two time periods, from June 21 to 30, 2023 and from January 21 to February 1, 2024, once a day at astronomical noon. Measurement of air temperature and internal surface temperature of the object's wall was carried out at each measuring station. Measurements at the measuring stations were carried out according to the GLOBE protocol for measuring surface temperature and air temperature. The color, material, and insulation of buildings play an important role in the absorption and retention of heat. Buildings painted in dark colors tend to absorb more sunlight, increasing their temperature. Lighter colors tend to reflect more sunlight, reducing heat absorption and keeping buildings cooler. Choosing a lighter facade color contributes to the reduction of "city heat islands", increases energy efficiency and improves the comfort of life. High-quality insulation of buildings is essential for temperature regulation inside rooms and reduces energy consumption.