Building Thermal Insulation: Selection, Application and Testing

Abstract

The fossil fuel reserves are limited and the energy consumption needs to be optimized. Buildings consume a lot of energy globally for heating and cooling applications. Building designers can solve the energy problem by proper design decisions regarding the selection and integration of building components wherein selection of appropriate thermal insulations can contribute significantly in reducing energy consumption and result in substantial cost savings. The paper presents an overview regarding the basic principles of thermal insulation types, materials, properties and testing methods as per the ASTM and BIS standards.