Sorption Properties of Thermal Insulation Composed of Flax or Hemp Fibers

Abstract

This paper deals with the sorption characteristics of thermal insulation materials based on flax and hemp. The added value of these materials is a positive impact on healthy and sustainable housing. Flax and hemp, which are classified as organic, have a high sorption capacity. Changes in the properties of these materials at a relative air humidity of 20% – 95% allow us to determine their advantages and disadvantages as well as whether the insulation is suitable for incorporation into a building structure. The article describes an experiment during which hygroscopic and thermal-technical properties were monitored. The most important indicators were the change in the coefficient of thermal conductivity and the change in the equilibrium moisture content.

Keywords

• thermal insulation materials
• insulation stability
• humidity
• moisture content
• hemp
• flax