A decision matrix concerning the efficient use of vacuum insulated constructions in building envelopes

Keywords Vacuum insulation, constructions of high architectural quality, high heat and humidity insulation, sensible application, decision matrix Abstract: Vacuum insulated constructions represent a high-quality insulating standard. Because of the evacuated core material these elements offer, encased by an airtight envelope, a really low thermal conductivity as soon as concurrently a really thin insulation thickness. So, with an orderly and professional integration of these elements, the realisation of constructions representing high architectural quality as well as high heat and humidity insulation is possible. These aspects - related to the ecological damage, the continuously rising energy requirements and the energy costs - breed an increasing interest in this insulation. In principle the corresponding applications on the building site show a wide range of possibilities – starting for example with the different types of roofs, the different types of facades, flat roofs used as loggias and ending with a floor slab. But one of the main problems using vacuum insulation is the fact that not every type of roof, façade or slab show convenient boundary conditions with regard to this technique. Before designing building constructions the engineers or architects duty is to check his planning over the suitability regarding the use of these vacuum elements. There are a lot of different aspects concerning the functionality of the vacuum insulation that should be fulfilled for a classification as "sensible application", such as for example the chance for an exchange of damaged elements, the economic situation concerning the realisation of a vacuum insulated construction in comparison with a conventional insulated one, the influence of these highly insulating elements on the thermal conditions of adjoining building elements and so on. In this article all these aspects shall be presented as well as an accordant decision matrix for the practical use.