Abstract:
Global warming has led to an increase in temperatures, resulting in heat accumulation within buildings and a corresponding rise in energy consumption for cooling. Reducing heat transfer from outside into buildings can significantly enhance energy efficiency. This study aims to design and develop thermal insulation panels using waste-expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam and rice straw to mitigate heat accumulation. These waste materials were repurposed in the research, where EPS foam was dissolved in an organic solvent mixture (acetone and toluene), resulting in a viscous glue-like liquid. This liquid was then mixed with cement paste at ratios of 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight of cement, serving as a binder. The tests revealed that the liquid EPS foam reduces the unit weight of the cement paste and enhances water resistance. Concurrently, rice straw was used as an aggregate in the cement binder mixed with EPS foam at ratios of 1%, 2%, and 3% to form lightweight thermal insulation panels. The test results indicated that using rice straw as an aggregate improves the strength and flexibility of the insulation panels. Additionally, the thermal conductivity of the insulation panels, made from the binder mixed with EPS foam and rice straw, was found to be below 0.25 W/m·K, meeting the industry standards (TIS 878-2566).