Civil and Infrastructure Engineering

Improving thermal properties of housing insulation and

exploring the current climate change impacts on sustainable
building materials
Contents,
Abstract................................................................................................................................................4

1.0 Introduction...................................................................................................................................5

1.1 Introduction and Background information.................................................................................5

Figure 1..............................................................................................................................................5

1.2 Aims & Objectives........................................................................................................................6

1.3 Objectives......................................................................................................................................6

2.0 Literature Review.........................................................................................................................7

2.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................................7

2.2.........................................................................................................................................................7

2.2.1 Building regulations..............................................................................................................7

Figure 2..............................................................................................................................................8

2.2.2 Current Materials being used..............................................................................................8

2.2.3 Housing construction of walls..............................................................................................8

Figure 3 and 4....................................................................................................................................9

2.2.4 3 Comparative types of materials being used.................................................................10

3.0 Methodology................................................................................................................... 11

4.0 Results………………………………………………………………………………………………

5.0 Discussion & Analysis…………………………………………………………………………..

6.0 Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………………

7.0 Appendix………………………………………………………………………………………….

7.1 References..................................................................................................................... 12
Abstract
The objective of this dissertation is to investigate sustainable building materials that can
enhance the thermal properties of housing insulation and explore their current impact in the
context of climate change. As buildings consume a significant amount of energy and are a
major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it is essential to improve their energy
efficiency to mitigate the effects of climate change. The study starts by conducting a review
of current sustainable building materials and their thermal properties. The advantages and
disadvantages of different insulation types, including traditional and bio-based materials, are
examined. In addition, the relationship between insulation type and energy efficiency in
residential buildings is analysed, taking into consideration factors such as material density,
thickness, and R-value.

The focus of the dissertation is on investigating the thermal properties of bio-based

insulation materials for sustainable housing. A variety of materials, including hemp, flax,
cellulose, and sheep's wool insulation, are evaluated through case studies for their thermal
conductivity, specific heat capacity, and other important properties. The efficacy of traditional
insulation materials, such as fibreglass and mineral wool, in enhancing energy efficiency is
then determined by comparing these results to those of conventional insulation materials. In
addition, the study examines the impact of climate change on construction materials and the
need for sustainable and resilient solutions. With the increasing frequency of extreme
weather events, the dissertation evaluates the resistance and durability of sustainable
building materials to adverse weather conditions in order to retain the most heat.

Overall, this dissertation provides valuable insights into sustainable building materials that
can improve the thermal properties of housing insulation and their current impact in the
context of climate change. The research findings can inform architects, builders, and
policymakers in making informed decisions about selecting and implementing sustainable
insulation materials in residential buildings, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and
resilient, green built environment.

After conducting thorough research, it was evident that the most suitable material to use in
housing insulation was XXXX as it achieved a high R-value of XX relative to its source
ability, cost of production and eco-friendliness.

ALSO INCLUDE APPENDIX / APPENDICES WITH FIGURES ANY VARIABLES AND

THEIR MEANINGS AND FORMULAS IF USED

IDEAS:
The role of green roofs in reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency in
buildings

The impact of climate change on building materials and the need for sustainable and
resilient solutions

The effect of thermal bridging on building envelope performance and energy

efficiency

The use of phase change materials in building insulation for energy conservation

Sustainable design strategies for passive solar heating and cooling in residential
buildings

The impact of insulation on indoor air quality and human health in sustainable
buildings

Evaluating the life cycle energy and carbon footprint of insulation materials for
sustainable housing.

Analysis of Sustainable Building Materials: This section will present an analysis of the
thermal properties of different sustainable building materials, including bio-based insulation
materials, to determine their effectiveness in improving energy efficiency.

Climate Change Impacts: This section will examine the impact of climate change on
building materials and the need for sustainable and resilient solutions, including an analysis
of the durability and resistance of sustainable building materials to natural disasters.

Health and Safety: This section will examine the potential impact of sustainable building
materials on indoor air quality and human health, including an analysis of the safety of bio-
based insulation materials.

Economic Viability: This section will evaluate the economic viability of using sustainable
building materials in residential buildings, including an analysis of production costs,
availability, and market demand.

Discussion and Conclusion: This section will summarize the findings of the study and
discuss their implications for architects, builders, and policymakers, as well as identify
potential areas for future research.

FUTHER WAYS TO SPLIT ANALYSIS

Analysis of Thermal Properties of Sustainable Building Materials:

A comparison of the thermal conductivity of traditional and bio-based insulation materials

An analysis of the thermal resistance and insulation performance of different sustainable

building materials

An evaluation of the impact of insulation thickness on the thermal performance of different

materials

An examination of the economic viability of using sustainable building materials in residential

buildings, including an analysis of the cost savings achieved through improved energy
efficiency.

PREVIOUS RESEARCH BELOW FOR IDEAS USING CHATGPT:

Dr. Arno Schlüter - Dr. Schlüter is a researcher at the Technical University of Denmark and
his work focuses on developing high-performance insulation materials. One of his recent
studies investigated the use of aerogel insulation in buildings and found that it can provide
significant energy savings (Schlüter et al., 2020).

Reference:

Schlüter, A., Zhang, G., Cai, G., & Lyckegaard, A. (2020). Aerogel insulation for energy
efficient buildings: A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 127, 109891.

Dr. Jelle Laverge - Dr. Laverge is a researcher at Ghent University in Belgium and his work
focuses on improving the energy efficiency of buildings. One of his recent studies
investigated the use of phase change materials (PCMs) in building insulation and found that
they can significantly reduce heating and cooling loads (Laverge et al., 2018).

Reference:

Laverge, J., Janssens, A., & De Paepe, M. (2018). Review on thermal energy storage with
phase change materials in building applications. Energy and Buildings, 159, 255-271.

Dr. David Jenkins - Dr. Jenkins is a researcher at the University of Warwick in the UK and
his work focuses on developing sustainable insulation materials. One of his recent studies
investigated the use of waste materials, such as straw and hemp, as insulation in buildings
and found that they can provide good thermal insulation properties (Jenkins et al., 2020).

Reference: Jenkins, D., Limbachiya, M. C., & Le, T. T. (2020). Review of natural fibre-based
insulation materials for building applications. Construction and Building Materials, 232,
117239.
Dr. Stephen Selkowitz - Dr. Selkowitz is a researcher at the Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratory in the US and his work focuses on developing energy-efficient building materials
and systems. One of his recent studies investigated the use of vacuum insulation panels in
buildings and found that they can provide high thermal resistance with relatively low
thickness (Selkowitz et al., 2019).

Reference:

Selkowitz, S. E., Arasteh, D. K., & Lee, E. S. (2019). Vacuum insulation panels: Performance
and potential applications in buildings. Building and Environment, 162, 106257.

These are just a few examples of researchers working on improving the thermal properties
of housing insulation. There are many more researchers and studies in this field that could
also be explored.

PREVIOUS CASE STUDIES

There are numerous case studies that have been conducted in improving the thermal
properties of housing insulation. Here are some examples:

Retrofitting social housing with insulation: A case study in the UK. This study investigated
the thermal performance of social housing after the installation of different types of
insulation. The results showed that the use of external wall insulation and loft insulation
significantly improved the energy efficiency of the buildings (Papadopoulos et al., 2018).

Reference:

Papadopoulos, A., Biddulph, P., & Oreszczyn, T. (2018). The impact of energy efficiency
interventions on overheating and indoor air quality in social housing. Building and
Environment, 138, 78-91.

Insulation and air sealing upgrades in a multifamily building: A case study in the US. This
study investigated the energy savings and thermal comfort improvements resulting from the
retrofit of a multifamily building with insulation and air sealing upgrades. The results showed
that the upgrades reduced energy use by 25% and improved thermal comfort for the
occupants (Chan et al., 2017).

Reference: Chan, W. R., Walker, I. S., Sherman, M. H., & Dickerhoff, D. J. (2017).
Performance evaluation of an energy and indoor environmental quality retrofit in a
multifamily building. Building and Environment, 115, 110-126.

Thermal performance of insulated building envelopes in different climates: A case study in

Iran. This study investigated the thermal performance of different types of insulation in
buildings located in different climatic regions of Iran. The results showed that the use of
reflective insulation and phase change materials can improve thermal comfort and reduce
energy consumption in buildings (Shahbazi et al., 2019).

Reference: Shahbazi, M., Mirzaei, P. A., & Hosseini, S. M. (2019). Thermal performance of
insulated building envelopes in different climates: A case study in Iran. Journal of Building
Engineering, 22, 114-126.

Thermal comfort and energy efficiency improvements in a residential building: A case study
in Greece. This study investigated the impact of retrofitting a residential building with
insulation, solar shading devices, and natural ventilation systems on thermal comfort and
energy efficiency. The results showed that the upgrades reduced energy consumption by
60% and improved thermal comfort for the occupants (Fragaki et al., 2017).

Reference: Fragaki, A., Droutsa, K., & Tsoutsos, T. (2017). Thermal comfort and energy
efficiency improvements in a residential building retrofit: A case study in Greece. Energy and
Buildings, 139, 238-250.

These case studies highlight the importance of improving the thermal properties of housing
insulation and the potential benefits of doing so, including energy savings and improved
thermal comfort for building occupants.

CLIMATE CHANGE PART

Climate change impacts on sustainable materials related to housing insulation have

been extensively studied by researchers. Here are some examples of previous works
and case studies:

Climate change impacts on natural insulation materials: A review. This study reviewed the
potential impacts of climate change on the availability and performance of natural insulation
materials, such as straw, hemp, and cork. The authors concluded that climate change could
impact the availability and quality of these materials, which may affect their use in building
insulation (Korkmaz et al., 2020).

Reference:

Korkmaz, S., Muthu, S. S., & Li, Y. (2020). Climate change impacts on natural insulation
materials: A review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 253, 119917.

Sustainable insulation materials for low-carbon buildings: A case study in the UK. This study
investigated the use of sustainable insulation materials, such as cellulose, wool, and wood
fiber, in low-carbon buildings. The results showed that these materials can provide good
thermal performance while also reducing the environmental impact of building insulation
(Crawford et al., 2019).

Reference: Crawford, R. H., Tse, D. K., & Jones, D. (2019). Low-carbon buildings: Insulation
materials and their environmental impact. Building Research & Information, 47(5), 479-491.

Life cycle assessment of insulation materials: A case study in Australia. This study
compared the environmental impacts of different insulation materials, including glass wool,
rock wool, and polyester, using a life cycle assessment approach. The results showed that
glass wool and rock wool have higher environmental impacts compared to polyester, but that
the use of recycled materials can significantly reduce these impacts (Singh et al., 2018).

Reference: Singh, A., Alam, A., & Muthu, S. S. (2018). Environmental sustainability of
insulation materials: A case study of Australia. Journal of Cleaner Production, 172, 4145-
4157.

Climate change impacts on insulation materials: A case study in Canada. This study
investigated the potential impacts of climate change on insulation materials, such as
expanded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and extruded polystyrene, in Canada. The results
showed that changes in temperature and precipitation patterns could impact the
performance of these materials, which may affect the energy efficiency of buildings (Baker et
al., 2018).

Reference: Baker, L. L., Côté, B., & Arsenault, N. (2018). Climate change impacts on
insulation materials in Canadian buildings. Energy and Buildings, 158, 291-300.

These studies highlight the importance of considering the impacts of climate change on
sustainable materials used in building insulation, as well as the potential benefits of using
environmentally friendly insulation materials.

There are numerous case studies that have been conducted in the area of improving
the thermal properties of housing insulation. Here are some examples:

Retrofitting social housing with insulation: A case study in the UK. This study investigated
the thermal performance of social housing after the installation of different types of
insulation. The results showed that the use of external wall insulation and loft insulation
significantly improved the energy efficiency of the buildings (Papadopoulos et al., 2018).

Reference: Papadopoulos, A., Biddulph, P., & Oreszczyn, T. (2018). The impact of energy
efficiency interventions on overheating and indoor air quality in social housing. Building and
Environment, 138, 78-91.
Insulation and air sealing upgrades in a multifamily building: A case study in the US. This
study investigated the energy savings and thermal comfort improvements resulting from the
retrofit of a multifamily building with insulation and air sealing upgrades. The results showed
that the upgrades reduced energy use by 25% and improved thermal comfort for the
occupants (Chan et al., 2017).

Reference:

Chan, W. R., Walker, I. S., Sherman, M. H., & Dickerhoff, D. J. (2017). Performance
evaluation of an energy and indoor environmental quality retrofit in a multifamily building.
Building and Environment, 115, 110-126.

Thermal performance of insulated building envelopes in different climates: A case study in

Iran. This study investigated the thermal performance of different types of insulation in
buildings located in different climatic regions of Iran. The results showed that the use of
reflective insulation and phase change materials can improve thermal comfort and reduce
energy consumption in buildings (Shahbazi et al., 2019).

Reference:

Shahbazi, M., Mirzaei, P. A., & Hosseini, S. M. (2019). Thermal performance of insulated
building envelopes in different climates: A case study in Iran. Journal of Building
Engineering, 22, 114-126.

Thermal comfort and energy efficiency improvements in a residential building: A case study
in Greece. This study investigated the impact of retrofitting a residential building with
insulation, solar shading devices, and natural ventilation systems on thermal comfort and
energy efficiency. The results showed that the upgrades reduced energy consumption by
60% and improved thermal comfort for the occupants (Fragaki et al., 2017).

Reference:

Fragaki, A., Droutsa, K., & Tsoutsos, T. (2017). Thermal comfort and energy efficiency
improvements in a residential building retrofit: A case study in Greece. Energy and Buildings,
139, 238-250.

These case studies highlight the importance of improving the thermal properties of housing
insulation and the potential benefits of doing so, including energy savings and improved
thermal comfort for building occupants.
1.0 Introduction

1.1 Introduction and Background information

The growing concerns about climate change and energy consumption have placed a
significant emphasis on improving the energy efficiency of buildings. As the residential sector
accounts for a sizeable portion of global energy consumption, enhancing the thermal
performance of housing insulation is a key strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
and mitigate the effects of climate change. However, the use of traditional insulation
materials, such as fiberglass and mineral wool, has raised environmental and health
concerns due to their non-renewable nature, high carbon footprint, and potential for indoor
air quality issues.

To address these concerns, the development of sustainable building materials that improve
the thermal properties of housing insulation has become a critical area of research. Bio-
based insulation materials, made from renewable resources such as hemp, flax, cellulose,
and sheep's wool, have gained traction due to their thermal performance, environmental
benefits, and potential to support rural economies. However, the use of these materials in
residential buildings requires a thorough understanding of their thermal properties, durability,
and impact on indoor air quality, as well as their resistance to natural disasters and climate
change.

This dissertation aims to explore sustainable building materials for improving the thermal
properties of housing insulation and their current impacts in the context of climate change.
The research will begin with a literature review of current sustainable building materials and
their thermal properties, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of different
insulation types. The relationship between insulation type and energy efficiency in residential
buildings will also be analysed, considering factors such as material density, thickness, and
R-value.

The dissertation will then focus on investigating the thermal properties of bio-based
insulation materials for sustainable housing. Previous case studies will also be researched
on a range of materials to evaluate their thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, and
other key properties. These results will be compared with traditional insulation materials to
determine their effectiveness in improving energy efficiency.

Finally, this second part of this research will examine the impact of climate change on
building materials and the need for sustainable and resilient solutions. As extreme weather
events become more frequent, the durability and resistance of sustainable building materials
to natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, and wildfires, will be evaluated.

1.1.2 Thermal Insulation definition

Thermal insulation, by definition, is the decrease of heat transfer (i.e., the transfer of thermal
energy between objects of varying temperatures) between items that are in thermal contact
or within the sphere of effect of radiation. Thermal insulation can be achieved by the use of
specifically developed technologies or processes, as well as through the use of appropriate
object forms and materials. When there is Contact between objects of varying temperatures,
there will always be a transfer of energy via heat flow. Heat insulation creates a zone in
which thermal conduction is restricted, forming a thermal break or thermal barrier, or thermal
radiation is reflected rather than absorbed by the cooler body.

1.1.3 Importance of Thermal Insulation

The research and investigation of thermals in housing is an extremely important initiative and
valuable in our current environment as in the last 60 years as shown in figure 1 the global
average atmospheric level of carbon dioxide was 414.72 parts per million in 2021 but less
than 320 parts per million in the 60’s according to the analysis done by NOAA Global
Monitoring Lab. This is clearly showing an immediate change in our climate that is causing a
domino effect in the way we should be looking into the thermal properties of houses and
sustainable materials that solve if not counteract the way we keep our constructs the correct
temperatures at the correct time.

Overall, this dissertation will provide valuable insights into sustainable building materials that
can improve the thermal properties of housing insulation and their current impact in the
context of climate change. The findings of this research can inform architects, builders, and
policymakers in making informed decisions about selecting and implementing sustainable
insulation materials in residential buildings, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and
resilient built environment.
Figure 1 (Lindsey, 2022) - Showing the increase of C02 emissions in the last 60 years shown by the
sharp incline on the graph.

There are many sustainable materials of the 21st century that can counteract the effects of
climate change and global warming however they are not all adequate and have their own
faults which will be researched thoroughly in this paper. In figure 1 mentioned beforehand
we can see a clear incline of carbon dioxide as the years progress this has led complete
economic failure and an increasing cost of living crisis in the UK due to an increase in
climate change, energy providers are providing energy at a higher rate causing customers
including the public to pay larger upfront costs due to inadequate thermal insulation in
housing. This occurs as the public are having to use more energy to keep their house
warmer and this is mostly due to the government not providing facilities to improve the
insulation or providing cost saving measures such as sustainable thermal materials or
equipment. In 2021, the average monthly gas and electricity expense per home was £111,6 -
£47.90 for gas and £63.70 for electricity, according to statistics. This amounts to £1,339 per
year or £334.80 per quarter.

However, costs have already climbed substantially this year. In addition, they are expected
to increase further in October, when the price ceiling will be increased once more. Currently,
the average gas and electricity cost per household in the United Kingdom is approximately
£164 per month; however, an anticipated 54% increase is due by 2022. (Glide, gas 2022)
1.2 Aims & Objectives
The aim of this dissertation is to research methods of Improving thermal properties of
housing insulation and displaying how the current climate change affects sustainable
materials and equipment. This aim will also be concluded with suggestions such as
recommending suitable materials and processes that will improve the thermal insulation as
well as conductivity for housing that presides in the UK.

1.3 Objectives
To successfully fulfil the above aims, the following objectives have been listed below – which
are to be completed meticulously and in chronological order.

1. Understand the literature of all government policies, ensuring the correct protocols
and building regulations are being observed throughout this paper
2. Research previous case studies to gauge a more informed understanding of how the
climate is affecting the housing environment
3. Determine what type of thermal material is commonly installed in UK housing as well
as its performance benefits and drawbacks
4. Compare a variety of materials, so that the optimal material in the market is installed
in relation to its effectiveness, efficiency, availability and cost

2.0 Literature Review

2.1 Introduction
As thermal insulation and sustainable material are well known topics in the engineering
world there are countless amount of research-based literature relating to them. There is a
larger variety on sustainable materials as for the last 30 years trying to be more eco-friendly
has become a world-renowned course to understand and to make a reality. Thermal
insulation also has a range of research stemming from lab reports to entire studies about
keeping offices or in this case housing warm.

This literature review will include existing research as well as examine government
regulations and case studies – finding out how these factors have impacted the UK
economies in the cost of living crisis as well as the current gap in research.
2.2
2.2.1 Building regulations
The UK has a variety of Building regulations. Tricker & Alford, (2022, p.1) states the Building
Act of 1984 sets a set of standards by which the Secretary of State safeguards the health,
safety, and convenience of those who reside in, work in, or are in close proximity to
buildings.

The fundamental objective of the Building Act of 1984 is to aid in the conservation of fuel and
electricity, to prevent waste, excessive consumption, abuse, and contamination of water, and
to protect the safety of individuals in or around structures. The Building Act of 1984 imposes
on owners and occupiers of buildings a set of standards governing the design and
construction of structures, as well as the provision of services, furnishings, and equipment
used in (or in conjunction with) buildings. These standards include, a method of inspecting
controlling and reporting buildings, guidance on how services fittings and equipment ought to
be used and mechanism for inspection and maintenance of services fitting or equipment that
has been used in the household.

This Source from (Tricker & Alford, 2022) also talks about the sustainability regulations in
housing such as ‘making existing structures more sustainable’ (p.134). These touches open
adding insulation in older buildings to improve the thermal properties and reduce energy
loss, also using the buildings thermal mass to absorb sun radiation to store heat.

Figure 2 (p .162 Tricker & Alford, 2022) – Showing the requirements for repairs inside and outside
of buildings, insulation is highlighted.
This source also contains information about cavity walls, which are a type of way to increase
the properties of thermal insulation. Because of this, this source has been established as a
source of literature that can be used for research on this paper.

2.2.2 Current Materials being used

Masonry, timber, steel, and concrete are still the typical materials used in the construction of
UK infrastructure. These materials have been employed for several hundred years since the
resource has been easily accessible during that time. According to Dewick, P. et al. (2019),
around 90 percent of the extracted materials in the UK are dirt and stones, which
demonstrates that the kind of materials that we utilise in the 21st century have not
significantly progressed regarding our approach to sustainability.

2.2.3 Housing construction of walls

Cavity walls are discussed in (Watts, A. 2013), along with how the pre-industrial use of
masonry led to the development of cavity walls through Gaudi's work on the Sagrada
Familia. In the United Kingdom, the majority of homes either have solid walls or hollow walls:
It is likely that cavity walls are present in most modern-day homes, especially if the building
was constructed after the 1920s. The outside leaf of a hollow wall is often built out of brick,
while the inner layer of a cavity wall can be made of brick or concrete block. A cavity wall is
made up of two walls with a space in between, hence known as the cavity. Any home in
London that was constructed after 1983 is required to have cavity wall insulation already
installed, however this feature may not be present in earlier properties.

Figure 3 and 4 (Cavity Wall, 2022) – showing the inside cut of a cavity wall
A cavity wall is a wall that is made of an inner skin and an outer skin of masonry (also
referred to as 'leaves' or 'wythes' if they are a single unit broad), joined by ties, but separated
by a cavity. The term "leaves" or "wythes" is used if the masonry units are a single unit wide.
Bricks, stones, and blocks are the types of units that are used to build the brickwork. If the
outside walls of a structure have a thickness that is less than 30 centimetres, then it is highly
improbable that such walls will have a hollow. Cavity walls were in use from the time of the
Greeks and Romans; nevertheless, they did not become a standard component of modern
building until the 18th and 19th centuries. Even at this point in history, they were quite
uncommon and typically consisted of two layers of brickwork that were joined together by
headers that extended over the hollow. It was not until the second part of the 19th century
that people started connecting the two skins with metal links, and it was not until the
beginning of the 20th century that this practise became widespread.

Another sort of housing construct is double glazing. Invented by the Scottish in the Victorian
times, it is a window that is made up of two separate panes of glass. The double-paned
sealed unit, sometimes referred to as an insulated glass unit (IGU), is the most important
part of the window. This component is housed within a frame made of either uPVC,
aluminium, or timber. The insulating glass unit (IGU) consists of two independent sheets of
glass that are held apart from one another by a spacer bar. This space is then filled with an
insulating gas normally xenon, argon, or Krypton. Comparable to a sandwich made of glass
bread with an air filling in the middle, The fundamental advantage of double glazing is
thermal insulation, or the ability to keep warm air within a room while preventing cold air from
the outside from entering, so resulting in a space that is more energy efficient.

2.2.4 Comparative materials being used

There are a variety of distinct materials that are routinely utilised in the construction of
sustainable housing projects and infrastructure, including aircrete, concrete blocks, timber,
and bamboo. The thermal qualities of housing are significantly impacted by the choice of
these materials, which are all of high value – some more than others.

Timber is one of the materials that is the most renewable and sustainable. (Buchanan,2001)
In both Italy and the UK, timber and wood products are becoming increasingly used for
building constructions due to their excellent properties such as lightness, low density, high
strength to weight ratio, prefabrication, and more. All these qualities allow for a reduction in
expenses associated with the construction of new timber buildings. Timber, bamboo, and
other wood-based goods are gaining in significance as building materials due to their low
carbon dioxide emissions and relatively inexpensive prices. (Chang, S.-Y. et al. 2013).
Timber is already used in the production and is a main component of double glazing, and
therefore it does have greater thermal insulation properties as well as being sustainable.

Likewise, Aircrete is another sustainable construction material that has the potential to be
employed in eco sustainable homes to improve its thermal insulation capabilities. Aircrete,
also known as autoclave aerated concrete, was first manufactured in the United Kingdom in
the 1950s. It is one of the forms of concrete that is the lightest and is also one of the
materials that is the most technically sophisticated for use in mass-produced concrete
blocks. Due to the fact that it can be created at densities ranging from 400 to 800 kg/m3, it is
significantly more lightweight than other types of standard aggregate concrete. (Fudge, C. A.
& Limbachiya, M. C. 2006) This aviation masonry, which is manufactured yearly in the UK at
a rate of around 3,000,000 meters^3, represents approximately one third of the total volume
of concrete masonry. All of these acoustic, energy conservation, fire resistance, and many
strength-wise structural features are offered in one environmentally friendly product by using
aircrete. Additionally, aircrete is a sustainable material.

Finally, Concrete Blocks are another form of insulation and sustainable materials. The
majority of the walls in a house may be constructed out of insulated concrete blocks. The
increase in the average wall R-value is a result of having insulation stuffed into their concrete
cores (with the exception of the cells that require structural steel strengthening and concrete
filling) The areas of connecting webs are minimised to its maximum capacity in the superior
concrete masonry units. R-values are a measurement of the thermal resistance, or
resistance to the transfer of heat across a material of a specific thickness. The greater a
material's R-value, the more effective it is as an insulator.

The materials described above are not only eco-friendly, but also incredibly thermally
productive. By comparing each material advantages and disadvantages, the best eco-
friendly material which would be most suited for residential construction can be determined.

2.2.5 Barriers and opportunities for improving insulation materials.

The development of insulating materials for use in building homes faces both challenges and
opportunities. Among some of the main obstacles are:

 Cost: It can be difficult for homeowners and builders to justify the expenditure
because high-performance insulation materials are frequently more expensive than
conventional insulation materials.
 Restricted accessibility: Certain high-performance insulation products might not be
easily accessible in all areas, which restricts their application in some contexts.
  Building regulations and standards: The use of cutting-edge insulation materials may
not be permitted by current building rules and standards, which presents a hurdle to
their adoption.
 Lack of knowledge: It's possible that homeowners and contractors are unaware of
the advantages of high-performance insulation materials or how to set them up and
maintain them.
However, despite these limitations, there are also several ways to enhance insulation
materials – such as:

 Technical developments: New potential to develop high-performance insulating

materials that are affordable and easily accessible are being opened up by
developments in material science and technology.
 Concerns about climate change are driving the need for more environmentally
friendly and energy-efficient building materials, such as insulating materials that
lower energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
 Government regulations and incentives: Governments may impose laws and
incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, or energy efficiency standards, to promote
the use of high-performance insulating materials. Improved knowledge and
instruction: More knowledge and instruction on the advantages of high-performance
insulation materials can encourage builders and homeowners to use them.
Overall, from previous works, it is clear there is a lack of studies on economic viability: While
bio-based insulation materials have the potential to support rural economies and create new
markets for farmers, there is still a need for more studies on their economic viability. Factors
such as production costs, availability, and market demand should be considered when
evaluating the feasibility of using these materials in residential buildings. Additionally,
improving insulation materials requires a combination of innovative technologies, supportive
policies, and effective communication and education to overcome the barriers and leverage
the opportunities.

In summary, this gap in research provides opportunities for further investigation and could be
addressed in a dissertation on improving thermal properties of housing insulation and
exploring the current climate change impacts on sustainable building materials.
3.0 Methodology
The method of deducting which material is best suited for insulating modern day homes as
well as ways in which to improve existing methods will be investigated and compared in this
paper.

This research employs a systematic literature review approach to explore the effectiveness
of current insulation materials used in housing construction, and to identify opportunities for
improving them in the context of climate change. The research design includes a
comprehensive literature study of existing insulation materials, building codes, and
standards, as well as climate data from relevant sources. The review will be structured
around previous works, which will be used to guide the search and analysis process.

Data collection will also be conducted through a systematic review of existing literature. The
search will be conducted using a combination of electronic databases, such as Google
Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science, as well as manual searches of reference lists
of relevant articles and books. The search will include published and unpublished works that
discuss the effectiveness of current insulation materials used in housing construction, and
the effects of climate change on them. The search will be limited to works published recently
and in English in the time frame from 2010 to 2023.

Doing a complete and reliable investigation requires the utilisation of latest research. Relying
on outmoded or out-of-date information might lead to conclusions that are inadequate or
erroneous in today's continuously changing world. This study makes use of modern research
to guarantee that the conclusions are founded on the most recent and reliable data
accessible, reflecting the most recent advancements and trends in the field. Recent research
is additionally more applicable to actual world circumstances because it is more pertinent to
contemporary problems and difficulties. This study appreciates the value of offering novel
notions and ideas that may not have been covered in earlier research. By analysing and
interpreting data in light of current trends and difficulties in the field, modern research
stimulates critical thinking, guaranteeing that the results drawn from this study are legitimate
and reliable.

The data collected through the literature search will be analysed using a thematic analysis
approach. The analysis will involve identifying key themes and patterns in the literature, such
as the types of insulation materials commonly used in different climatic regions, the
performance of these materials under different climatic conditions, and the opportunities for
improving these materials to enhance their performance under changing climate conditions.
The analysis will also involve a critical appraisal of the quality of the literature, using
established criteria such as relevance, reliability, and validity.
Thematic analysis is a qualitative research method used to identify and analyze patterns,
themes, and meanings in qualitative data, such as interview transcripts, focus group
discussions, and open-ended survey responses. It involves identifying and coding patterns
and themes in the data, and then developing an interpretive framework to understand and
explain these patterns.

Most discoveries made in this area of work are published in journals so that other
researchers may learn, understand, and build on their results. It is this approach of collating,
scrutinising and improving existing research on insulation in modern day homes that will
achieve the proposed aims and objectives in this paper.

Data will be gathered through a variety of previous works published in articles and case
studies. In addition, determining whether there have been any recent policy shifts within the
government regarding sustainability in the near future will be discussed. The entirety of the
data, details, and insights presented in this paper may be found in official records that have
been released by the government. Furthermore, studies that have been produced with
similar exploratory themes that are comparable to the focus topic will also be discussed and
concluded by using a combination of both qualitative and some quantitative analysis.

4.0 Results

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
320822943_Environmental_impact_of_thermal_insulations_How_do_natural_insulation_pro
ducts_differ_from_synthetic_ones/link/59fc2321458515d070628717/download

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
338806458_Use_of_thermal_insulation_in_the_envelope_to_mitigate_energy_consumption
_in_the_face_of_climate_change_for_mid-western_Brazil/link/5e2bb3c5a6fdcc70a148fb76/
download

USE THESE!
5.0 Discussion & Analysis
1. Interpretation of the results
2. Implications for future research and practice
3. Limitations of the study – the below analysis and conclusion were copy and paste
done by ai lol don’t use it fully
The existing literature suggests that improving the thermal properties of building insulation
can significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. A study by
Shrestha et al. (2018) found that improving the insulation of residential buildings in the
United States could lead to a reduction in energy consumption by 10-20%. Similarly, another
study by Stang et al. (2019) found that improving the thermal performance of building
envelopes can significantly reduce the energy demand and carbon emissions associated
with heating and cooling.

In addition to improving insulation, the use of sustainable building materials can further
reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry. A study by Tran et al. (2018) found
that the use of sustainable materials such as cross-laminated timber and bamboo can lead
to a reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional materials such as concrete and
steel. Another study by Kumar et al. (2019) found that using natural insulation materials such
as cellulose and wool can reduce the embodied energy and carbon footprint of buildings.

However, it is important to consider the lifecycle impacts of insulation materials and

sustainable building materials. A study by Ozkan et al. (2019) found that while newer
insulation materials such as spray foam and rigid foam board offer higher R-values and
improved air sealing capabilities, they also have higher embodied energy and environmental
impacts compared to traditional materials. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the lifecycle
impacts of insulation materials to make informed decisions.

The associated economic costs of implementing energy-efficient building practises and

sustainable materials are one of the major restrictions on the scope of this study. Although
though these techniques can result in long-term cost savings, some homebuyers and
builders may be put off by the initial expenses. In addition, more study is required to truly
understand the environmental effects of more recent insulation and sustainable construction
materials, as well as the efficiency of these methods in various geographical and climatic
conditions. To ensure that energy-efficient and sustainable building techniques are available,
practical, and truly sustainable, it is essential to take these constraints into account.

Overall, the literature suggests that improving the thermal properties of building insulation
and exploring the use of sustainable building materials can play a crucial role in mitigating
the impacts of climate change. Policymakers, architects, builders, and homeowners should
prioritize energy-efficient building practices and sustainable materials to reduce the carbon
footprint of the construction industry and create a more sustainable future.

References:

Kumar, R., Gupta, N., & Thakur, A. (2019). Life cycle assessment of natural insulation
materials. Journal of Cleaner Production, 221, 367-376.

Ozkan, E., Yigitcanlar, T., & Shrestha, A. (2019). Sustainability of building insulation
materials: A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 101, 97-108.

Shrestha, A., Yigitcanlar, T., & Paraskevopoulos, I. (2018). Energy performance and thermal
retrofit of residential buildings: A review of current trends and future challenges. Renewable
and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 81, 426-434.

Stang, B., Sandberg, N., Myhre, G., & Strømman, A. H. (2019). Climate impacts of building
envelope solutions: A comparative study. Building and Environment, 152, 344-353.

Tran, H. Q., Liao, K., Nakamura, T., & Yabe, K. (2018). Comparative environmental
assessment of building materials: The case of bamboo, cross-laminated timber and
reinforced concrete. Journal of Cleaner Production, 195, 196-204.

6.0 Conclusion
1. Summary of the research findings – your suggestion after researching
2. Implications of the research for policy and practice
3. Recommendations for future research
This study investigated the environmental impact of different insulation materials (products)
in the cradle to gate life cycle phases. They were separated in three groups: inorganic-
synthetic, organic synthetic and organic-natural. The drivers which influence the
environmental impacts were highlighted and based on the grouping, conclusions regarding
their environmental impacts were made.

The study observed parallels concerning the factors that influence the environmental
categories between the insulations in each group and that for each of the defined groups,
specific drivers influence the environmental impact.

In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the importance of improving the thermal
properties of housing insulation and exploring the use of sustainable building materials to
mitigate the impacts of climate change. Through a review of the literature and analysis of
data, it has become clear that improving insulation in buildings can significantly reduce
energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the use of sustainable
building materials can further reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry.

The findings of this study suggest that policymakers, architects, builders, and homeowners
should prioritize energy-efficient building practices and sustainable materials. Incentivizing
energy efficiency measures and promoting the use of sustainable materials can help reduce
the carbon footprint of the construction industry and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Future research should focus on developing innovative and cost-effective solutions to

improve the thermal performance of building insulation and exploring the use of new
sustainable materials. The construction industry has a critical role to play in reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and creating a more sustainable future. By prioritizing energy
efficiency, sustainability and adopting this study, we can make significant progress towards a
more resilient and sustainable built environment.

7.0 Appendix
Fig 1 –

Fig 2 –

…
7.1 References
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Climate.gov. Available at: https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-
climate/climate-change-atmospheric-carbon-dioxide (Accessed: November 29,
2022).
2. A history of home insulation – traditional insulations (no date) Spray Foam. Available
at: https://www.sprayfoam.co.uk/blog/traditional-insulation-history.html (Accessed:
November 29, 2022).
3. Average gas and electricity bill per household 2022 (2022) Glide. Available at:
https://glide.co.uk/guides/average-gas-and-electric-bill-per-household-2022/
(Accessed: November 29, 2022).
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Oxon; Routledge.
6. Davis, L. W. et al. (1992) Guide to the Building Regulations, 1991 : for England and
Wales. [New ed.]. Oxford: Butterworth Architecture.
7. Anon (1987) Construction and building materials (Online). Guildford, Surrey:
Butterworth Scientific].
8. Chang, S.-Y. et al. (2013) Advances in civil engineering and building materials:
selected, peer reviewed papers from 2012 2nd International Conference on Civil
Engineering and Building Materials (CEBM 2012), 17-18 November, Hong Kong.
[Online]. Leiden, The Netherlands: CRC Press.
9. Woolley, T. (2013) Low impact building housing using renewable materials.
Chichester, West Sussex, U.K: John Wiley & Sons.
10. Dewick, P. et al. (2019) Regulation and regenerative eco-innovation: the case of
extracted materials in the UK. Ecological economics. [Online] 16038–51.
11. Cavity Wall (no date) Cavity wall - Designing Buildings. Available at:
https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Cavity_wall (Accessed: November 30,
2022).
12. McKay, W. B. (2015) Building construction. London, [England]; Routledge.
13. Buchanan, A. H. (2001) Structural design for fire safety. Chichester: Wiley.
14. Fudge, C. A. & Limbachiya, M. C. (2006) Briefing: Aircrete. Proceedings of the
Institution of Civil Engineers. Construction materials. [Online] 159 (2), 49–51.