Investigating the thermal efficiency of commercially available thermo-foils in Sri Lanka

Alawaththage D Maduranga,H.H Sumathipala,N.W.K Jayatissa

doi:10.4038/josuk.v6i0.4217

Alawaththage D Maduranga, H.H Sumathipala + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.4038/josuk.v6i0.4217

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Abstract

The thermo-foil is an insulation material which can be used to insulate roofs of residential buildings which causes less energy to accomplish a comfortable temperature inside the building. It’s becoming popular in Sri Lankan building construction sector. In this research, an investigation of the efficiency of the thermo-foils is done for commonly used brands. The important thermal properties are analyzed for thermo-foils with a thickness of 3mm, 5mm and 8mm and it is tested using a miniature building model for the further evaluation of the efficiency. It was observed that the aluminium layer of the thermo-foil could reflect most of the radiation back and the polyethylene foam layer could keep a temperature gradient of a few degrees. A temperature drop of 1.6 to 2.8 degrees was noted. The results obtained were discussed with an analysis of the thermal insulation properties. A heat transfer model for a residential building was also proposed.Keywords: Thermo – foils; Thermal conductivity; polyethylene foam; roof insulationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/josuk.v6i0.4217J Sci.Univ.Kelaniya 6 (2011) : 01-12

Highlights

Advancing to the modern world from the primitive eras, the human lifestyle has been changed and enormously developed
The aluminium layer of the thermo-foil is participating for the reflection of the incident beam
A high reflective aluminium layer works as a barrier to the radiant heat and reflects back 97.8% of the radiant heat

Summary

Introduction

Advancing to the modern world from the primitive eras, the human lifestyle has been changed and enormously developed. This growth towards the luxurious life was apparent in agriculture, manufacturing, production, and transportation etc. Thermal insulation is a method to reduce the heat transfer of the building. Thermal insulation of exposed roofs is a very effective method for a country like Sri Lanka near equator as the solar radiation incidents throughout the year and roof is the main surface which absorbs and conducts heat into the building. The heat transfer can be controlled to attain a comfortable environment inside the building

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