Implementation of aerogel-based plaster in Sweden -A hygrothermal parametric study on wall constructions in the Swedish building stock

Abstract

As global warming continues, new solutions and technologies are constantly being sought to reduce human impact on the climate. This happens in many sectors, including the construction sector which also accounts for significant emissions. A new type of material has therefore been developed in Europe during the last decade, in this study referred to as aerogel-based plaster. It is a plaster containing aerogel granules which has a low thermal conductivity and is developed for buildings in need of renovation. As this plaster has an insulating ability, it can decrease the energy consumption of the building while the character defining elements can be preserved. The material has been studied in central European climate, while this study aims to explore the suitability of using the material in Sweden. Common building constructions in Sweden have been investigated through in-depth hygrothermal and energy simulations. Parametric studies have also been performed where factors such as damage in the water repellent layer, thickness of aerogel-based plaster, climate condition, and drying rate have been investigated. In addition, an analysis has also been made of the energy performance of the material and how it behaves in Swedish climate. The results suggest that the material can be used in the Swedish climate on many different wall constructions without the construction being damaged in terms of moisture. However, one crucial parameter is that the material is protected from rain as it can absorb a lot of water. This can be done by a suitable type of finish, such as water repellent paint. The energy simulations formed the basis for a simplified economic evaluation for the reference building, which showed that aerogel-based plaster is suitable when a thinner insulating layer shall be considered. When a thicker layer can be applied, other materials may be more beneficial since the cost of aerogel-based plaster largely depends on its thickness.