Assessment of structure and moisture influence on the properties of loose-fill cellulose insulation

Abstract

The effectiveness of thermal insulation materials mostly depe nds on their thermal conductivity. The low thermal conductivity is predetermined by density, struct ure, moisture content and temperature of material and, considerably less, by other indices. Loo se- fill cellulose insulation is allocated to the group of materials, the density of which fluctuates within large limits. This pro perty is related not only to application of cellulose wool in different constructions, but also to technological aspects of production a nd operating characteristics. Cellulose wool of higher density is used to prevent settling of thermal insulation layer in construc tions. This study covers the investigations perfo rmed as to thermal conductivity and granulometric composition of loose-fill cellulose insulation, as well as to assessment of impact of moisture co ntent on this index. For description of relationship of thermal conductivity, the regression equations were obtained. The relationship between density and load of loose-fill cellulose insulat ion of different structure was evaluated. Using the scanning microscopy, the main elements of cellulose wool were established and the mechanism of impact of struct ure on thermal conductivity and dens ity of material was explained.