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The smart vapor retarder (SVR) is primarily a vapor barrier membrane that is sensitive to ambient relative humidity (RH) and controls water vapor diffusion through the insulated exterior walls. This paper presents experimental findings from accelerated aging tests, simulating long-term performance indicators, on SVR and compares them with similar observations made on a traditional 6-mil poly (i.e., polyethylene) vapor and air barrier. Elevated temperature and ultraviolet (UV) light were the two primary environmental agents used to accelerate the aging process. The performance of the vapor barrier was assessed from water vapor permeance, air permeance, and tensile strength properties at various stages of aging. The results from these tests indicate that water vapor permeance, air permeance and mechanical properties of SVR do change due to accelerated aging. In aged SVR material, compared to the original specimens, the RH dependency of the water vapor permeance at higher RH levels appears to be less evident. However, overall performance of SVR, compared to 6-mil poly, does not exhibit significant concerns about its accelerated weathering performance or serviceability.
Citation: Thermal Performance, International Conference, 2010
Product Details
- Published:
- 2010
- Number of Pages:
- 10
- File Size:
- 1 file , 1.2 MB
- Product Code(s):
- D-BUILDINGSXI-175
