Characterisation of a multilayer external wall thermal insulation system. Application in a Mediterranean climate. (July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pedroso, Marco; Flores-Colen, Inês; Silvestre, José Dinis; Gomes, M. Glória; Silva, Luis; Sequeira, Pedro; de Brito, Jorge
• Is Part Of: Journal of building engineering. Volume 30(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-07
• Subjects: Silica aerogel thermal insulation renders -- Energy-efficient buildings -- Multilayer system -- Nanomaterials -- Thermal insulation; Building -- Periodicals; 690.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2020.101265
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-7102

Abstract

Abstract: In recent years, the materials applied to buildings' envelopes have been studied in-depth to improve their thermal insulation properties, enabling significant energy savings. This led to the development of new thermal insulation renders with lower thermal conductivities (λ) (λ < 0.040 W m −1 K −1 ). However, their mechanical and water resistance performance has also decreased. In this context, this research discusses the performance of a multilayer thermal insulation system with a super-insulating thermal render (λ < 0.030 W m −1 K −1 ), to be applied on the exterior, subjected to a Mediterranean climate. A set of mechanical, physical, and microstructural tests were conducted. Within the scope of this study, it was possible to improve the render's mechanical performance and water resistance, when protective layers were applied in a multilayer system. When its performance is compared with other multilayer products currently in the market, this new solution presents competitive results, which further encourage the tests in real operative conditions. Highlights: Multilayer external wall thermal insulation system including aerogel. Analysis conducted with the Mediterranean climate zone in perspective. Evaluation of mechanical, physical and microstructural characteristics. Benchmarking of this multilayer thermal insulation solution.