Laboratory tests of external partition thermal insulation dedicated to buildings with a "nearly zero energy consumption"

Thermal protection regulations for the buildings change. Currently, the construction sector aims to minimize the energy consumption. Energy Performance Directives have introduced the standard of "Nearly Zero Energy Building" (NZEB). After 2021, the design of NZEB buildings will be mandatory. The parameters of NZEB buildings in Poland are very difficult to meet and concern the thermal insulation of housing structures and the non-renewable ratio of the original PE. In the article, the Authors reviewed traditional and modern thermal insulation materials that will allow meeting the thermal insulation requirements for the external walls of NZEB buildings. Another problem raised by the authors is the insulation of historical buildings. The aim of the article is to compare the parameters and prices of the thermal insulation materials such as foamed polystyrene with innovative materials such as aerogels. (paper)