Experimental Evaluation of Thermal Conductivity of Straw Fiber Insulation Panels as a Function of the Relative Humidity

This study explores the thermal characterization of straw panels for possible use as thermal insulants in building applications. Particular attention is paid to the effect of relative humidity on the thermal conductivity of the panels. After a period in a climate chamber, to assess equilibrium conditions in terms of relative humidity, the thermal conductivity is measured according to the ISO 8301 standard. Thermal conductivity values of interest for applications such as thermal insulation in buildings are found. Moreover, results show that an increase in relative humidity from 45% to 80% yields an increase in thermal conductivity in the range of 20% - 22.6%.