Module 2: Types of Insulation Materials & Properties
2.1 Thermal Insulation Materials
Thermal insulation materials are designed to reduce heat transfer, improving energy efficiency in buildings. The choice of material depends on factors such as thermal performance, cost, ease of installation, and environmental impact.
Common Types & Properties:
Mineral Wool (Rock Wool & Glass Wool):
Made from volcanic rock or recycled glass.
Pros: Fire-resistant, good acoustic insulation, non-combustible (A1 fire rating).
Cons: Can irritate skin/lungs during installation, heavier than other options.
Applications: Cavity walls, lofts, and fireproofing.
Fiberglass:
Composed of fine glass fibers.
Pros: Lightweight, affordable, easy to install.
Cons: Less effective at blocking sound, can cause skin/eye irritation.
Applications: Residential attics, wall cavities.
PIR/PUR (Polyisocyanurate / Polyurethane):
Rigid foam boards with high thermal resistance.
Pros: High R-value, moisture-resistant, lightweight.
Cons: More expensive, flammable (unless treated with fire retardants).
Applications: Roofing, external wall insulation (EWI).
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) & XPS (Extruded Polystyrene):
EPS is lightweight and cost-effective; XPS is denser and moisture-resistant.
Pros: Good thermal performance, water-resistant (XPS).
Cons: Flammable, can degrade under UV exposure.
Applications: Floor insulation, insulated concrete forms (ICF).
Natural Fibers (Sheep’s Wool, Hemp, Cork, Cellulose):
Eco-friendly options made from renewable materials.
Pros: Sustainable, biodegradable, good moisture regulation.
Cons: Generally more expensive, may require treatment for pests/fire.
Applications: Green buildings, retrofit projects.
2.2 Acoustic Insulation Materials
Acoustic insulation reduces noise transmission between rooms or from external sources.
Key Materials & Uses:
Mineral Wool & Fiberglass – Effective for airborne sound absorption (walls, floors).
Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) – Thin but dense, used in partitions and ceilings.
Acoustic Foam Panels – Used in studios and offices to absorb echoes.
Resilient Channels – Decouples walls/ceilings to reduce impact noise.
Considerations:
STC (Sound Transmission Class) – Measures noise reduction (higher = better).
NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) – Rates sound absorption (0-1 scale).
2.3 Fire-Resistant & Vapour Control Layers
Fire-Resistant Insulation:
Mineral Wool, Glass Wool, Calcium Silicate – Non-combustible (Euroclass A1/A2).
Intumescent Coatings – Expand when heated, protecting structural elements.
Fire Barriers – Used in cavities to prevent flame spread.
Vapour Control Layers (VCLs):
Prevents condensation within walls/roofs, which can cause damp and mold.
Materials: Polyethylene sheets, foil-backed plasterboard.
Placement: Installed on the warm side of insulation (varies by climate).
2.4 Environmental Impact & Sustainable Options
Environmental Concerns with Traditional Insulation:
Fossil Fuel-Based (PIR, EPS/XPS) – High embodied carbon, non-biodegradable.
Fiberglass & Mineral Wool – Energy-intensive production but recyclable.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives:
Sheep’s Wool – Naturally renewable, moisture-regulating.
Hemp & Cork – Low carbon footprint, good thermal properties.
Recycled Materials (Cellulose, Denim Insulation) – Made from post-consumer waste.
Certifications to Look For:
BREEAM, LEED – Green building standards.
Cradle to Cradle (C2C) – Assesses recyclability and sustainability.
Conclusion
This module provides a detailed understanding of insulation materials, their thermal and acoustic properties, fire safety considerations, and eco-friendly alternatives.
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