Torfmoos (Sphagnum) – historisches Erfahrungswissen und neue Einsatzmöglichkeiten für ein Naturprodukt

Abstract

Peat moss (Sphagnum) – historic knowledge and new applications for a natural product. Peat moss (Sphagnum) was a commonly used sealant, fill and insulation material in the past. In the course of the efforts to rewet drained moors due to ecological reasons, the technical use of peat moss (Sphagnum farming) is in the focus of attention again. In the framework of this investigation, the thermal conductivity and the hygroscopic behavior of moss mats with varying density was investigated. The results showed that peat moss is a promising insulation material for building joints, because its thermal conductivity is comparable with the one of polystyrene or mineral wool. Moreover, prototypic building details were developed focusing on the application of peat moos for the insulation of the mounting gap of windows. In this respect, peat moss could be an ecological alternative to the widely used polyurethane foam.