DaNaRo

Development of verification methods for the durability of insulation materials made from renewable raw materials.

The durability of thermal insulation materials is an essential prerequisite for ensuring that the properties guaranteed in the declaration of performance and taken into account in the design meet the thermal, moisture and fire protection requirements for building components throughout the building’s service life. Factors relevant to durability arise in the respective areas of application from the climatic conditions and the exposure of the material. These factors, in turn, depend on the specific construction and, where applicable, the durability of adjacent building component layers. In this project, the relevant influencing factors and resulting ageing mechanisms (e.g. settlement/shrinkage, changes in microstructure, degradation of additives, biological processes, etc.) are identified for the most important groups of insulation materials made from renewable raw materials, and their impact on key properties (thermal conductivity, mechanical properties, moisture and fire behaviour) is investigated. Building on this, suitable test programmes will be developed to demonstrate durability for a target service life of 50 years. 

The laboratory tests are supplemented by hygrothermal simulations, the analysis of component and field tests, and site inspections. Qualified verification of the durability of insulation materials made from renewable raw materials underscores the positive implications of using renewable raw materials in line with the European Commission’s Green Deal and New Circular Economy Strategy (cascade use). The expected findings can also be used for product optimisation. From an economic and ecological perspective, the economical and targeted use of additives (fire protection, water repellency) is particularly noteworthy here. The results are to be incorporated into standardisation work upon completion of the project.