Thermomechanical behavior of bio-fiber composite thermal insulation panels

Abstract

The thermomechanical properties of the bio-fiber composite, as material for the production of thermal insulation panels, were evaluated. The observed mixtures were composed of Miscanthus X giganteus bio-fibers, mineral binders (cement or lime), pozzolanic materials (zeolite and fly ash), and water. The favorable heat transfer behavior of composites based on Miscanthus X giganteus bio-fibers was already affirmed by literature data of similar natural bio-fiber materials, the author’s previous experimental results, and consideration of dynamic heat transfer processes in the insulated outer wall exposed to variable ambient conditions. The experimental assessment was focused on the bearing capacity (i.e. compressive and flexural strength), water absorption, and durability (i.e. resistance to freeze-thaw and carbonation), because there is scarce literature data regarding these properties, whose thorough understanding and systematization are highly important for a wider application of biomass-based thermal insulation materials. The obtained results were evaluated through the comparison to published data from similar bio-based thermal insulations, as well as from conventional thermo-insulation materials such as polystyrene and stone or glass wool.