Experimental study of using Aerogel insulation for residential buildings

Abstract

ABSTRACT Nowadays energy saving has become one of the most compelling sectors in the world. Thermal insulation of buildings presents an effective solution for energy conservation. Aerogel insulation is the most advanced insulation material for building application. Having low thermal conductivity around 15 mW/(m.K), high resistance to perforation, and flexibility to be cut and adapt at building site make Aerogel one of the most promising thermal insulations. In this paper, the feasibility of using Aerogel blankets as a super insulator has been experimentally verified using small scale laboratory test, large scale field test and high-fidelity computer simulations using Energy-Plus. A reduction in energy use by 23% and 38% was observed when using single (10 mm) and double (20 mm) layers of aerogel, respectively for a period of one year. Furthermore, payback analysis confirmed the effectiveness of using Aerogel. Aerogel insulation will help engineers to build energy efficient buildings.