Microclimate Analysis of Outdoor Showcases in Tropical Climate—Two Case Studies in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Extreme greenhouse conditions within glass showcases, exacerbated by direct solar radiation and evaporation–condensation cycles, pose significant risks to the preservation of historic earthen walls at Al Ain’s Cultural Sites. The study, conducted in a hot desert climate with high aridity, reveals that these conditions generate dangerously high temperatures and soluble salt accumulation on the remains. To address this undocumented scenario, researchers modeled solar radiation and shading while measuring temperature, humidity, and moisture content over a year. Mitigation strategies such as shading, ventilation, and cooling are proposed to reduce the greenhouse effect and improve conservation outcomes.

Camuffo, D., della Valle, A., Giorio, R., Rizzi, F., Barucco, P., Suma, M., Ahmed, J., Chabbi, A., Shaker, O., & Sheehan, P. (2024). Microclimate Analysis of Outdoor Showcases in Tropical Climate—Two Case Studies in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Climate, 12(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/cli12010006