THERMAL INSULATION SYSTEMS

The aim is to thermally insulate the materials or systems to prevent the transfer of heat/cold via conduction. This is assessed in terms of thermal resistance, expressed in m².K/W (square metre and Kelvin/Watt).

A material is considered thermally insulating when its thermal conductivity coefficient is less than λ<0.10 W/m2K measured at 20 °C (obligatory) (previously: 0.085 kcal / m2.°C)

The passage of heat depends on the resistance provided by the materials.

Classification of thermal insulation:

Mineral wools; rock wool and glass wool
Plastic foam derived from petroleum:
- Expanded polystyrene – EPS
- Extruded Polystyrene – XPS
- Expanded Polyethylene
- Expanded Polyurethane
- PUR
Recycled products; such as cellulosic insulation made from used paper and sheep’s wool
Vegetable based materials; straw or bundles of straw, wood chips, natural cork, etc.

The thermal conductivity between the materials used in construction tends to be similar. As a result this is not the main consideration for their selection. The difference revolves around their physical-chemical characteristics.

Factors to be assessed:

Contraction / Dilation of the insulation material
Fire resistance
Action against solvents and atmospheric agents
Mechanical requirements