8 - Thermal insulation of buildings through classical materials and nanomaterials

Abstract

The worldwide energy scenario necessitates the reduction of energy consumption so that the fossil fuel supplies can be prolonged and the emission of greenhouse gases can be minimized. With this context, this chapter focuses on energy-efficient buildings based on thermal insulation using nanotechnology and nanomaterials. The topics covered include fundamentals of building physics, conventional and nano-based thermal insulation materials, and nano-coatings. Various promising nanomaterials such as aerogel, vacuum-filled panels, and phase change materials have shown promising results in the recent past. Nanomaterials, owing to their strong microscopic characteristics provide efficient thermal insulation to the buildings. However, there are certain environmental and health issues, which should be taken into account, so that this technology could be used with optimum benefits.