Heat Transfer Rate Analysis of Different Roof Insulation Materials

Abstract

The building sector is crucial in Middle East countries because it is one of the primary energy consumers. Currently, reinforced cement concrete (RCC) is preferred for roof construction due to its durability and possesses higher strength. Heat is conducted rapidly through rooftops composed of RCC because it has more thermal conductivity compared to other roofing materials. In the Middle East, RCC roofs are usually lined with marble and polyurethane to increase thermal insulation and reduce heat transfer from the roofs. In this research, the thermal conductivities and temperature reduction capabilities of distinct material combinations for roof insulation have been investigated. The rates of heat conduction were estimated, and a suitable roof combination was found based on the maximum heat resistance and temperature reduction ability. The hot plate guarded method determines the thermal conductivity of marble and polyurethane sheets. Fourier law of heat conduction was employed to calculate the rate of heat flow through roof samples. According to the experimental findings, compared to concrete without insulation, the rate of heat conduction was reduced by 11.8% with combination B (RCC lined with marble) and by 84.3% with combination C (RCC lined with marble and polyurethane).