The ISOBIO project developed highly insulating construction materials using bio-derived aggregates combined with innovative binders.
Project Overview
ISOBIO was an EU-funded Horizon 2020 initiative (grant 636835) running from February 2015 to early 2019, coordinated by TWI in Cambridge, UK, with a 6.3 million euro budget. It focused on creating durable bio-based composites like panels and renders from low-embodied-carbon aggregates (e.g., pretreated natural fibers). The approach integrated raw material production to finished systems for scalability in mass housing.
Key Innovations
Materials used hydrophobic sol-gel treatments on bio-aggregates to boost biodegradation resistance while preserving hygrothermal properties for moisture management. These composites leveraged natural moisture sorption for better indoor air quality and reduced air conditioning needs. Outcomes included prototypes tested in real buildings, advancing sustainable envelopes.
Performance Targets
Targets included 20% better thermal insulation than mineral wool or closed-cell foams, 50% lower embodied energy/carbon, and 15% cost reduction versus traditional systems. Whole-life benefits projected 5% total energy savings per building via carbon sequestration. Results confirmed viability for retrofits and new eco-builds.
