Field evaluation of reflective insulation in south east Asia

Abstract

Abstract:The objective of this research was to obtain thermal performance data for reflective insulations in a South East Asia environment. Thermal resistance data (RSI, m 2 · K/W) for reflective insulations are well established from 1-D steady-state tests, but thermal data for reflective insulation in structures like those found in South East Asia are scarce. Data for reflective insulations in South East Asia will add to the worldwide database for this type of energyconserving material. RSI were obtained from heat flux and temperature data of three identical structures in the same location. One unit did not have insulation above the ceiling, while the second and third units were insulated with reflective insulation with emittance less than 0.05. RSI for the uninsulated test unit varied from 0.37 to 0.40 m 2 ·K/W. RSI for a single-sheet reflective insulation (woven foil) varied from 2.15 to 2.26 m 2 · K/W, while bubble-foil insulation varied from 2.69 to 3.09 m 2 · K/W. The range of RSI values resulted from differences in the spacing between the reflective insulation and the roof. In addition, the reflective insulation below the roof lowered attic temperatures by as much as 9.7 ∘ C. Reductions in ceiling heat flux of 80 to 90% relative to the uninsulated structure, due to the reflective insulation, were observed.

Thermal Performance of Residential Roofs in Malaysia: Experimental Study Using an Indoor Solar Simulator

“…The study showed that the radiant barrier managed to lower the heat flux transmission by up to 70% and reduced the ceiling temperature by 8 • C during the summer days. Teh et al [16] compared the thermal performance of bubble and woven aluminium foil in two identical test cells with gable roofs. The heat flux transmission reduction for both reflective foils was roughly 80-90% compared to uninsulated roofs.…”