ON THE WAY TO REACHING THE MINIMAL THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY VALUE OF THERMAL INSULATION MATERIALS

Abstract

The way to reaching the lowest value of thermal conductivity of thermal insulation materials is highly relevant for issues of energy efficiency. In order to improve thermal characteristics of traditional and new thermal insulation materials, intense research has been conducted with the goal of creating materials that are economically cost effective, and at the same time have the lowest value of thermal conductivity. Furthermore, it is also about reducing harmful effects on the environment and designing buildings with close to zero energy consumption. The paper provides an overview of characteristics of available and future thermal insulation materials, citing their advantages and disadvantages. The goal is to research which thermal insulation materials are on the way to reaching the lowest values of thermal conductivity, and their lowest possible values. Nevertheless, even though the lowest value is reached, that does not mean that these materials fulfill all requirements of sustainable and green buildings, so it is crucial to be knowledgeable about their limitations.