Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building Enclosures Using Bio-Based Materials

Abstract

Biocomposites are finding applications in the construction industry due to their low cost and environmental acceptability. Two of the major cost drivers for composites are labor and raw materials. Plant derived raw materials can be used to manufacture fiber reinforced composites. The suitability of bio-based raw materials in composite products for building envelope enclosures need to be investigated. Natural fibers can be used as reinforcements in both thermoset and thermoplastic composites. Soy based thermoset resin system is ideal for automated composite manufacturing process like pultrusion because of the increase in line speed. The improveme nt in the interfacial properties of these new materials will enhance the mechanical and hygrothermal characteristics. This will overcome the performance limitations in terms of acceptable specific strength and durability. Development of sustainable bio-based materials will lead to low cost, energy efficient and low maintenance building products.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Biomaterials; Composites; Natural Fibers; Soy-Based Resin; Pultrusion

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2004 SAE International (Society of Automotive Engineers ), All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2004

Link to Full Text

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