Development of Methodology for Determining the Physical Properties of Natural and Innovative Materials

Abstract

The high energy consumption of buildings in the various sectors of society, the exploitation of natural resources and the use of fossil fuels make it necessary to research constructive alternatives that can reduce the impact on the planet. The use of thermal insulation in buildings is important for the reduction of energy consumption, however, most of the materials developed are manufactured generating high rates of pollution. This study starts with the use of natural elements (corn cob / soybean straw / pine bark) and innovative elements (vacuum / slimstone plate), in order to improve energy efficiency of buildings. The methodological development of the work began in the selection of materials and development of facade cladding boards. The determination of the thermal conductivity was analyzed using a heating plate and PT100 temperature sensors, determination of the apparent and actual density, and analysis of the material composition using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). After the development of the analyzes, the natural slabs and recycled slimstone showed significant results, with thermal conductivity lower than 0.07 W / m.k.