Heat transfer modelling through building insulation that is based on new measurement strategy

Heat lost during the transfer in insulation characterizes the energy efficiency in buildings. Nowadays many discussions follow the aim whether polystyrene as porous insulating material meets the requirements that are put on building materials. One of the problems is not only heat lost due to conduction but also humidity level in the space between polystyrene panels and wall that can make an appropriate surrounding for attacks by microorganisms. The following approaches have been examined to model the heat lost in the building insulation, especially in the space between the wall and polystyrene panels: (1) Construction the appropriate equipment to measure the temperature and humidity level; (2) Testing the temperature and humidity level; (3) Modelling the heat transfer that is based on measurement results. This paper describes the results of a research project carried out at the University of Prešov and Vienna University of Technology entitled "Detection and Management of Risk Processes in Building Insulation" and numbered SRDA SK-AT0008-10. Precise equipment to measure the temperature and humidity level in the space between polystyrene panels and wall was constructed, tested and used. The measured values characterize temperature and humidity inside the building, outside and in the space between polystyrene panels and wall. The modelling showed the heat transfer characteristics using a new measuring strategy.