A Feasibility Study on the Use of Foam-in-Place Urethane Insulation in Masonry Cavity Walls.

摘要

The report represents results of a feasibility study on the use of foamed-in-place urethane insulation in masonry cavity walls. The program was initiated to determine if this system should be incorporated in standard military construction. A thorough survey of manufacturers,system suppliers,and installation constractors of foam products was conducted to determine the physical properties and technical nature of the application. Building codes and standard military and federal specifications were researched to investigate the acceptance of urethane foam insulation in masonry cavity walls. Installation and operating cost estimates were made for the various insulation systems in temperature zones of -20F, 0F,and +20F. This investigation revealed that rigid urethane foam has impressive physical properties. It has an excellent thermal efficiency and a high strength-low weight ratio,and its closed cell nature gives it good moisture resistance and stability. Major drawbacks of the application include adverse effects of hot and cold temperatures,moisture,and humidity on foam quality,health and safety problems in installation,and high application costs. Foamed-in-place urethane is not recommended as masonry cavity wall insulation in standard military construction. The disadvantages of the foam outweigh its advantages,particularly since the foam has no economic advantage for such construction. (Author)