Insulation systems for structures on pile supports

Abstract

Construction on problem soils or in permafrost conditions involves using of pile foundations with a ventilated space under the floor structure. In this case, additional thermal insulation is required under the first-floor structure (above the ventilated space). The aim of research was to develop insulation systems for buildings on pile foundations for different climatic zones, including conditions of the arctic region and other regions with a predominance of ever-frozen ground. With the help of the THERM computer program, the conditions of bidimensional heat interchange in the enclosing structures of a building with pile foundation were simulated. The resulting models were analysed in terms of the thermophysical characteristics of the structures. As a result, the optimal version of the insulation system was chosen, effective both in the climatic conditions of the midland and in the especially cold conditions of Yakutia and Trans-Polar region (The Subarctic). This system included insulation with mineral wool slabs along the facade walls, with extruded foamed polystyrene along the basement part and the floor structure, and with rolled foamed polyethylene (with the formation of a seamless insulation shell) along the ventilated space under the floor structure and above, on top of insulation boards.