Development and Thermal Performance Assessment of Bio-Based Insulation Panels from Fountain Grass for Green Buildings

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable thermal insulation materials has intensified research into underutilized plant biomass with low environmental impact. This study explores the potential of Cenchrus setaceus (Forssk.) Morrone—commonly known as Fountain Grass— inflorescences as a lightweight, bio-based insulation material. T The flowers were collected after removing the stems, keeping only the floral parts, and mixed with an adhesive derived from recycled expanded polystyrene (EPS) dissolved in a diluent solution. The resulting composites were formed into panels and tested for their thermal properties. Thermal conductivity and diffusivity were determined using two complementary techniques—the Hot Disk and Box methods—yielding consistent results across both approaches. The panels exhibited a thermal conductivity of approximately 0.11 W·m⁻1·K⁻1 and a thermal diffusivity of 0.48 mm²·s⁻1, confirming their suitability for insulation applications. These results demonstrate that Fountain Grass inflorescences, when bound with an EPS-based adhesive, offer a dual environmental benefit: valorization of invasive plant biomass and recycling of post-consumer plastics. This synergy aligns with circular economy principles and presents a viable pathway toward eco-friendly, low-density insulation materials for green building applications.