Acoustic and thermal behavior of materials based on natural fibers for energy efficiency in buildings

Abstract

Insulation materials are the first step towards energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption on buildings. The goal of this research is to design acoustic and thermal insulation materials which fulfill several criteria, low cost, biodegradable and recyclable, such as natural fiber-based materials. Thermal and acoustic properties of several nonwovens developed from fique, coir and recycled cotton from denim were characterized. Possible uses are proposed for the manufactured materials bases on the requirementsof the Spanish Building Code.