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Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of alternative thermal insulation. The case of family-based farming

Authors

  • Graciela Melisa Viegas Universidad de La Plata
  • Carolina Walsh Universidad de La Plata
  • Maria Victoria Barros Universidad de La Plata
Vol. 31 No. 86 (2016)

Abstract

Family-based farmers of Greater La Plata and Berazategui (Buenos Aires, Argentina) are conditioned by their position as leaseholders of land by which they live and work and by their fragile economicproductive situation. Low-cost dwellings with low habitability standards and poor insulating properties are observed. This paper proposes the exploration of alternative insulating materials through the reuse of resources. These materials may contribute to the improvement of both existent (recycling) and new dwellings. Such an exercise involved the measurement of the thermal transmittance of materials through hot box methods. Different analyses of the most representative materials were conducted during 2014; these elements were divided into four categories: natural fiber, plastic, paper and soil. Interviews and consultations were conducted in order to elaborate quantitative analyses that were contrasted with the opinion of potential users and the viewpoint of technicians involved in this social segment. Results show that corrugated cardboard and recycled polyethylene have good insulating properties, are affordable or obtained for free and reduce the amount of existing waste; likewise, users consider the use of these materials a possible solution if they solve sealing, humidity and condensation issues.

Author Biographies

Graciela Melisa Viegas, Universidad de La Plata

Architect, PhD in Renewable Energies. Assistant researcher at CONICET, member of the Institute of Research and Policies of the Built Environment, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, National University of La Plata.

Carolina Walsh, Universidad de La Plata

Architect, member of the Institute of Research and Policies of the Built Environment, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, National University of La Plata.

Maria Victoria Barros, Universidad de La Plata

Architect, professor at the National University of La Plata, member of the Institute of Research and Policies of the Built Environment, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, National University of La Plata.

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How to Cite
Viegas, G. M., Walsh, C., & Barros, M. V. (2016). Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of alternative thermal insulation. The case of family-based farming. Revista INVI, 31(86), 89–117. Retrieved from https://analesderecho.uchile.cl/index.php/INVI/article/view/62719
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Revista INVI
Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo
Universidad de Chile
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