2x4 Wood-Framed Wall Insulated with Guardian Fiberglass Batts and Dynamic Radiant Barrier Containing PCM-Enhanced Foam

Background

During Spring months 2005, ORNL research team constructed and tested 2x4 wood frame wall insulated with novel Dynamic Radiant Barrier containing Phase Change Material (PCM)-enhanced foam. In this wall, which was tested in the ORNL guarded hot box using ASTM C-1363 procedure, 2x4 wood studs were installed at 16-in. on center and they were insulated with Guardian fiberglass batts. Conventional ½-in. thick OSB sheathing was used on one wall side. On the opposite side of the wall ½-in. thick gypsum board was installed. Figures 1 depicts this wall during configuration before hot-box testing.

Figure 1. Experimental 2x4 wall during construction.

Figure 2 shows view of elements of the wall instrumentation necessary for hot-box tests.

During dynamic hot-box testing side-by-side thermal performance was compared for two following wall options:

1. Three conventional 2x4 wall cavities insulated with R-13 FG batts

2. Three 2x4 wall cavities insulated with R-13 FG batts and Dynamic Radiant Barrier containing PCM-enhanced foam

Figure 2. Wall instrumentation necessary for hot-box tests.

This research project was conducted in collaboration with Outlast Technologies and Guardian Building Products.

Click Here For Test Information On Guardian Building Technologies

For more information please contact Dr. Jan Kosny

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