The research project 'Bio-Iso - Biobased Insulation: Energy, Sustainability, and Comfort' from the Biobased Construction research group at HZ University of Applied Sciences has been nominated for the RAAK Award. It is one of six projects nominated for the award by the Regieorgaan SIA. There is both a jury prize and a public prize, and votes for the public prize can be cast through this website.
The Biobased Building research group is part of MNEXT, a collaboration between HZ and Avans. Marijn Heeren, a Biobased Building researcher at HZ, is leading the project. Together with researchers like Svebor Heruc, professor Frank Huijben, producers, and builders, and with support from Bouwend Nederland, they have developed and constructed a test setup to examine biobased façade materials.
Added Value
International studies have shown that biobased insulation materials can provide added value due to their thermohygroscopic properties. These materials can absorb and release heat and moisture. However, there is little validated knowledge available in the Dutch construction sector regarding the application of these materials.
The setup consists of two containers, in which both indoor and outdoor climates can be simulated simultaneously. Between the containers, researchers can construct façades using biobased materials for study. The setup also includes a humidification, drying, and heating unit, along with ten sensors that measure the volumetric moisture content. This allows for measurements at different depths within the façade, indicating how much moisture the material absorbs and releases over time and under varying relative humidity levels. The data obtained from this can help determine when and how to apply these materials in construction.
Six Nominees
The RAAK Award is an annual prize for the best practice-oriented research. This year, the jury is chaired by Maaike van de Kamp-Romijn. In addition to Bio-Iso, five other projects from Hogeschool Leiden, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, and Windesheim have been nominated.
The winners of the first, second, and third prizes, as well as the public prize, will be announced at the SIA Congress on November 28. More information about the other nominees can be found here.