SEDL / STP / STP1116-EB / STP16362S

Gas-Filled Panel High-Performance Thermal Insulation

Griffith, BT
Research AssociateStaff ScientistGroup Leader, Windows and Daylighting Group; Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA

Arasteh, D
Research AssociateStaff ScientistGroup Leader, Windows and Daylighting Group; Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA

Selkowitz, S
Research AssociateStaff ScientistGroup Leader, Windows and Daylighting Group; Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA

Pages: 14    Published: Jan 1991

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Abstract

This paper introduces a new high performance non-CFC based insulating material with primary applications for refrigerator/freezer and building walls. Characteristics of these gas-filled panels, projected and experimental thermal performance levels, cost estimates, and manufacturing/installation issues for this material are discussed. Independent testing of prototypes has yielded R-values of 36 m-K/W (5.2 hr-ft²-F/Btu-in) for air filled panels, 49.3 m-K/W (7.1 hr-ft²-F/Btu-in) for argon filled panels, and 86.8 m-K/W (12.5 hr-ft²-F/Btu-in) for krypton filled panels. Target R-values values are 36 m-K/W (5.2 hr-ft²-F/Btu-in), 55 m-K/W (8 hr-ft²-F/Btu-in), and 105 m-K/W (15 hr-ft²-F/Btu-in) for air, argon, and krypton filled panels, respectively. Manufacturing costs depend strongly on gas-fill and structural requirements and are estimated at 42 to 850 $/m³ (0.10 to 2.00 $/ft²-in). This insulation system can be fabricated using commercially available materials and equipment.