Investigation of material characteristics and hygrothermal performances of different bio-based insulation composites

Abstract

• Four bio-based insulation composites are investigated for their hygrothermal performances and mould growth potential. • The cork composite has the best hygrothermal performance without mould growth. • The mycelium composite is highly susceptible to mould growth risk. • Medium mould growth risk is observed on both hemp and grass composites. The thermal and hygric characteristics of four bio-based insulation composites (mycelium, hemp, grass and cork) are investigated, and their hygrothermal performances including mould growth potential are simulated and analysed under typical construction details and various climates profiles. The cork composite is found to have the best hygrothermal performance and is suitable under all investigated climates without mould growth, due to its hydrophobic nature and low thermal conductivity. The mycelium composite is highly susceptible to mould growth risk; whereas medium risk is observed on both hemp and grass composites. The findings underline the suitability of using different bio-based composites according to the assembly design and the local climate conditions.