LAUSR

Abstract A bio-based multilayered wall has been developed in the framework of the European ISOBIO project. A key point was to be able to perform proper simulations of the hygrothermal transfers occurring through the wall: local predictions are of first importance to characterize the behavior of the wall and thereafter its ability to ensure comfortable hygrothermal conditions inside buildings. A previous study proved that the conventional assumption of an instantaneous equilibrium between local relative humidity and water content according to the sorption isotherm is not relevant for bio-based porous materials, where in practice slow sorption kinetics occur. In the present study, an improved expression of the local kinetics is proposed and validated by sorption experiments. Then, Moisture Buffer Value tests are performed (Nordtest project's protocol). The simulations are adjusted to these measurements by using the inverse method in order to refine the knowledge of some critical parameters. Depending on the studied materials, the local kinetics constants are between 0.15 and 14 day-1/(kg.m-3). Finally, the ISOBIO wall is studied in a bi-climate room under a wide range of operating conditions. Simulations carried out with the conventional approach (TMC) and the local kinetics approach (TMCKIN) are compared to measurements: this clearly shows that the latter is able to predict well the relative humidity dynamics while the former underestimates it by a factor up to 66%. These results highlight the relevance of the new expression of the local kinetics and its ability to describe well the local hygric dynamics is certainly an achievement.