Thermal Performance and Durability Evaluation of Arundo Donax towards an Improvement in the Knowledge of Sustainable Building Materials

Abstract

Bio-based and natural building materials can support the building sector to reduce its environmental impact. In this study, experimental research was developed to evaluate the performance of giant reed when used as a building thermal insulation. Reed was chosen due to its high availability and close relationship to Portuguese vernacular architecture. The role of the reed’s origin in this context, its physical characteristics and its durability aspects were evaluated. The results showed that the performance of the reed boards was compatible with their use as a thermal insulation material, regardless of the reed’s origin. Denser boards showed better results. Under the favourable conditions related to the reed’s water content, mould growth could occur.

Keywords

• giant reed (<i>Arundo donax</i>)
• thermal insulation
• natural materials
• durability
• vernacular architecture