Development and performance evaluation of a hemp–starch composite. (November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moussa, Tala; Maalouf, Chadi; Lachi, Mohammed; Umurigirwa, Sandrine; Mai, Ton Hoang; Henry, Jean-François
• Is Part Of: Journal of building physics. Volume 40:Number 3(2016:Nov.)
• Page Start: 278
• Page End: 295
• Publication Date: 2016-11
• Subjects: Hemp–starch -- hygric properties -- mercury porosimetry -- pore size distribution -- numerical simulation; Buildings -- Environmental engineering -- Periodicals; Insulation (Heat) -- Periodicals; 693.8
• DOI: 10.1177/1744259116637860
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-2591

Abstract

This article describes the results of a research project carried out at the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne. The aim of this article is to develop a new insulating material produced by bonding hemp shives with wheat starch as a binder and to characterize its physical properties such as sorption isotherm, water vapour permeability, thermal conductivity, heat capacity and porosity. The equations of coupled heat and moisture transfer within the panels are introduced. These governing equations are applied on the room level in order to assess the hygrothermal behaviour of the panels and its impact on energy consumption and indoor comfort. Simulations are performed for Nancy (France) winter conditions with the simulation environment Simulation Problem Analysis and Research Kernel (SPARK) suited for complex problems.