Project Details
Objectives
InsulaTFH will greatly increase the use of recycled waste materials as high value insulation in the wall panels of timber-frame housing. Specific objectives include:
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Develop a robust low-cost process for the processing of waste wood and paper materials into cellulose insulation fibres, which can be integrated within the production facilities of timber-frame manufacturers.
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Develop a low-cost process for the insulation-filling of timber-frame panels using these cellulose materials.
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Set up a mechanism to exploit across Europe.
Work Programme
Involving partners from Ireland, Germany and Belgium, the project will develop a first application for in-factory, low-volume (i) processing of waste into fibres and (ii) filling of wall panels. The application will be validated in production conditions, with the output panels being field tested, qualified and certified in cold climate and hot climate and passive-house conditions. Market channels will be set up using the existing network of the technology provider across Europe. Dissemination of results will be facilitated using the Europe-wide network of a construction industry association.
The work programme will involve the following:
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Analysing the needs of stakeholders, including construction professionals and companies, users and legislators.
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Developing a systems architecture including processing of raw materials into pulp, manufacture of panels, transport and on-site construction.
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Developing and validating the process.
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Exploitation of the innovation.
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Regular dissemination.
Outputs & Results
The prime output is a low-cost, robust mechanism for in-factory processing of waste into cellulose insulation materials, and an integrated insulation-filling process for timber-frame panels, resulting in the delivery on-site of sealed, guaranteed panels. Anticipated results include:
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Expansion in the use of recycled materials for insulation
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Significant cost reduction for wall panels
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Elimination of on-site filling of insulation into panels
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Major reduction in life-cycle environmental impact through the use of benign materials of low embodied energy, reduced transport, reduced packaging and reduced landfill
