Hygrothermal performance study of an innovative interior thermal insulation system

An innovative interior thermal insulation system on the basis of hydrophilic mineral wool which can serve as an alternative solution to the commonly used systems with water vapor barrier is presented in the paper. At first, the process of materials design is described. Then, the hygrothermal performance of the designed insulation system is tested in the difference climate conditions that correspond to the winter climate in Middle Europe. In the experiment, the profiles of temperature, relative humidity and liquid moisture content are monitored. Measured temperature profiles demonstrate the proper thermal insulation function of the system. The hygric function can also be considered very good as no water condensation during the whole testing period of five months appears in the insulation layer. Therefore, the basic requirements for the successful application of the system in building practice are met. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.