Thermal insulation at room temperature. Insulation classification

Since the 1970s, all industrialized countries have been pursuing an energy-saving policy, which has led to considerable growth in the thermal insulation sector. This development has been vigorously pursued through international (ISO, CEN) and national (AFNOR) standardization, leading to the development of numerous, increasingly stringent regulations, and the introduction of ACERMI certification in France.

The field of fundamental and industrial research has also undergone significant parallel growth, with the aim of gaining a better understanding of basic physical phenomena, improving existing insulating materials, and researching new insulating materials and new applications. Finally, metrological resources for more precise and broader characterization of insulating materials (thermophysical and mechanical properties, fire and ageing resistance, etc.) have been improved to ensure quality assurance.

Thermal insulation can be associated with an insulating material, product or system. This article will focus on insulating materials, how they work and their thermophysical characterization.