Comparative Assessment of Insulation Materials for Improving Indoor Air Quality in Building Retrofit
Journal: Environmental Science & Sustainable Development (ESSD) (Vol.9, No. 2)Publication Date: 2024-06-30
Authors : Vishnupriya Valeriparambil Narayanan Arman Hashemi Heba Elsharkawy Darryl Newport Lucienne G. Basaly;
Page : 34-47
Keywords : Indoor air quality; VOCs; Insulation materials; Health and wellbeing; Retrofit;
Abstract
This paper evaluates the impacts of different insulation materials on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and occupant health with a focus on the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions. The main aim is to identify options that minimizeexposure rates while improving IAQ and energy in retrofitted buildings. A comprehensive literature review was conducted synthesizing scholarly articles, guidelines from international organizations, and information on pollutants, IAQ standards, and retrofit strategies. The findings show high emission rates for some insulation materials that could negatively affect health. Hemp insulation in contrast was identified as a promising solution exhibiting low VOC emissions compared to other insulation materials. As sustainable construction practices advance, hemp insulation emerges as a viable retrofit strategy for social housing by synergistically addressing performance gaps related to energy conservation, air quality, and thermal comfort. The synthesis of evidence from this paper suggests that, from environmental and public health perspectives, certain insulation materials are preferable for improving IAQ and reducing the risk of exposure to indoor air pollutants in retrofitted buildings
Other Latest Articles
- Evaluating Thermal Comfort and Overheating Risks in A Social Housing Prototype - As-Built Versus Retrofit Scenarios
- Promoting Peri-urban Agriculture: A Remedy for Climate Change. Case of the Town of Delly Brahim in Algiers
- CHALLENGES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF POST-PARTUM PREECLAMPSIA WITH DELAYED PRESENTATION
- ENHANCING TIME SERIES FORECASTING ACCURACY WITH DEEP LEARNING MODELS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
- EFFECT OF BUSCOPAN COMPARED WITH GLUCAGON DURING GASTROSCOPY, COLONOSCOPY, AND ERCP- A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Last modified: 2024-09-08 14:34:22