Review of Thermal Performance Evaluation Methods for Thermal Reflective Insulation Materials

In the last few years, heat-reflective insulation materials have been supplied in the form of polyethylene (PE) foam covered by aluminum films, which enhances constructability compared to typical aluminum sheets and secures air layers. As composite materials comprised of aluminum films, PE foam, and air layers, they are easily distinguishable from organic insulation materials, beading insulation materials (EPS), extruded polystyrene insulation boards (XPS), rigid polyurethane foam (PUR, PIR), and inorganic insulation such as glass wool and mineral wool. Due to the use of low-emissivity materials in heat-reflective insulation and the formation of air layers, the assessment of insulation performance factoring radiant heat has been an issue over the years. Testing standards have yet to be established for heat-reflective insulation. Thermal performance is evaluated based on the criteria for evaluation of thermal transmittance of walls and roofs containing heat-reflective insulation (KS F 2277) for composites instead of individual materials. Further verification is required as this method of evaluating thermal performance of heat-reflective insulation is different from that of existing organic and inorganic insulation materials. Against this backdrop, this study reviewed the status of heat-reflective insulation in Korea and overseas, and examined methods used to evaluate their insulation performance.

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