Insulation in buildings

Abstract

The aim of this thesis was to investigate the thermal performance / insulative properties of various materials used in relation with the building industry. This enabled the sat up of comparative data on the insulative properties of the materials tested. Part two of this thesis was concerned with the experimental investigation on several building materials. This involved the construction of a cubical structure. internally thermally insulated, with a missing face. The latter enabled different materials to be used as a face of the cube and hence tested. Testing involved heating within the cube and taking temperature readings at several positions. From these tests several results were obtained. Insulation in buildings does not refer solely to the use of insulants although this is one aspect. This is a function which is dependent on several the building's orientation and size, climate and all the control functions of the building itself, that is the PASSIVE controls, examples being fenestration and ventilation. 'Insulation in Buildings' effects the thermal performance of buildings and hence the thermal comfort of its occupiers. To this respect the first part of this thesis was dedicated.