Quantum mechanics

Engineering

Biology

Metallurgy

Materials science

Layer (electronics)

Thermal conductivity

Agricultural engineering

Airflow

Gypsum

Durability

Air permeability specific surface

Mortar

Waste management

Mechanical engineering

Physics

Cement

Thermal

Straw

Lime

Agronomy

Environmental science

Composite material

Architectural engineering

Meteorology

Rice straw

Journal of Building Engineering

This study assesses the performance of sustainable building walls made from 80 kg/m3 and 100 kg/m3 straw bales. Experimental tests based on the procedures set out in conventional testing guidelines were designed to evaluate their hygrothermal and acoustic characteristics. First, experimental tests were performed to characterise intrinsic properties of rice straw fibres as loose material, such as specific heat capacity, hygroscopic sorption properties and biological resistance. Straw bales were then studied as a building material in terms of thermal conductivity, water vapour permeability and water absorption. The acoustic performance was also assessed by evaluating the airflow resistivity. Finally, different constructive solutions for walls that combined rice straw bales and a variety of coatings (lime mortar, gypsum plaster board and OSB) were studied in terms of thermal transmittance and thermal delay, and with respect to airborne sound insulation. Based on the experimental results presented herein, it can be concluded that rice straw bales can be used to build high performance sustainable building walls. These results also contribute to make the construction industry more confident that such an unconventional building solution can be safely used.

Characterisation of sustainable building walls made from rice straw bales