The impact on indoor air of bio-based insulation materials: effect of humidity and potential mould growth

Bio-based insulation materials represent an alternative to petro-based materials which may contribute to enhance buildings energy efficiency. Nevertheless, these material must respond to indoor air quality requirements and prove their resistance to moulds. In this study, VOCs emissions of a wood fibre board were characterised at 50% and 85% of relative humidity (RH) as well as its potential to mould growth. Relative humidity variation impacted significantly some VOCs emissions and colonies from Aspergillus niger developed onto the material. This results can contribute to the different questions concerning the use of this type of materials to isolate buildings.