TESTING OF NATURAL INSULATION MATERIALS USING A CONICAL CALORIMETER

Abstract

This paper examines three types of natural insulation materials, such as fiberboard, hemp and straw, from the point of view of fire safety. Cellulose-based materials allow a wide range of applications when used for insulation and weatherproofing of buildings, in particular floors, roofs, ceilings, attics, sound barriers, etc. The use of these materials is increasing in ecological constructions as well as for weatherproofing wood-based structures. In terms of fire safety requirements, the question is: Which insulating material is the safest in terms of fire propagation? The article focuses on natural products used as external insulation systems which are covered by a facade plaster. Each type of insulation is briefly described in terms of its composition, use, and production process. We describe the process of preparation of samples as well as the testing and measurement procedures. Three tests were carried out for each type of material. For a more objective evaluation, results were averaged. The results of the cone calorimeter were used to obtain data for comparison. The aim is to clarify the behavior of the natural insulating material with regard to the heat release rate, ignition time, burning duration, and maximum heat release rate. These are the essential parameters for comparison. The values were compared to determine the safest material from the point of view of fire safety.