Experimental Thermal Performance Assessment of a Prefabricated External Insulation System for Building Retrofitting

Abstract

External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS) are increasingly used for the energy-efficient retrofit of buildings. This paper evaluates the in-situ thermal performance of a prefabricated composite panel made of PIR and concrete, by full scale testing of a prototype installed at the KUBIK test facility. Experimental results from measurement show a reduction in the thermal resistance of the ETICS assembly compared to theoretical design values. A number of phenomena have been identified causing multidimensional heat flow of conductive and convective nature,such as thermal bridges at floor slabs and anchors, and thermal bypass of the insulation causing airflow behind the ETICS.