Thermal transmittance of a cellulose loose-fill insulation material

The thermal performance of cellulose insulation material was investigated and compared with the thermal performance of stone wool batts. The moisture content in selected facade elements insulated with cellulose loose-fill insulation material and stone wool, was investigated as well as the influence of the moisture content on thermal transmittance. The investigation was carried out as a full-scale test under normal climate conditions in a moisture test house facility. Facade elements were built as timber frame constructions. Heat flow through the facade elements was measured with built-in heat flowmeters and the moisture content in the thermal insulation behind the wind barrier was measured with moisture measuring dowels. The test showed that the thermal performance of the tested type of cellulose loose-fill insulation material was significantly lower than the thermal performance of stone wool batts. The maximum moisture content of the insulation material was below, what in Denmark is considered critical for the onset of rot and growth of wood decaying fungi. The thermal transmittance did not change with changes in the moisture content within the investigated hygroscopic range.