Development of innovative insulation systems on the basis of vacuum insulation panels

Within an ongoing project between the Fraunhofer Society and German Manufacturers new components for vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) are in development. Alternative approaches for high barrier films and core materials are investigated. An alternative barrier film shall be the basis for new vacuum insulation panels, however parallel to the barrier development new insulation systems using commercial films are being tested. For the building application in a first step exterior insulation finish systems have been worked out. VIP prototypes have been produced with a commercial barrier film and used in different prototype systems. Characterisations by measurement and by simulation of the thermal bridges of complete wall constructions give insight into properties of various constructive variants. Appropriate solutions for mounting were proposed and tested in demonstration objects. This presentation focuses on the properties of the prototype systems and results from the test facade of Fraunhofer ISE whilst other demonstration objects are presented in [Zwerger, 2005].