Investigation of the thermal behavior of the natural insulation materials for low temperature regions

Abstract

State of Jammu and Kashmir has experienced an acute energy crisis on account of low per capita energy availability. This has forced people to extensive use of wood leading to deforestation. Therefore it is mandatory to move towards a complete sustainable energy strategy. Thermal insulation of the buildings presents a key opportunity in the energy savings. A growing interest is targeted on new insulating materials incorporating recycled and sustainable types. Judicious use of insulation materials in the buildings not only reduces the energy consumption but also reduces greenhouse gas emission and provides better indoor thermal comfort. In the present work natural insulation materials like sheep wool, goat wool and horse mane are processed and characterized in term of moisture absorption, thermal conductivity, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The objective of the study is to explore the potential of natural materials like sheep wool, goat wool and horse mane for use in thermal insulation in the buildings. Results reveal that the horse mane absorbs more moisture content than the sheep and goat wool. Goat wool of density 269.874 kg/m3 exhibits a low thermal conductivity of 0.0314 W/mK. Horse mane shows more stability up to the temperature of 375 °C as compared to sheep and goat wool. In addition these natural insulation materials have better environmental aspects and show better efficiency compared to conventional insulation materials.