We tested thermal insulation for flat roofs

With the increasing roof installations of photovoltaic panels, it is often necessary to consider the load-bearing capacity and layers of the flat roofs to prevent the formation of depressions at the load points, which could lead to water accumulation and subsequent degradation of the roofing material. Therefore, UCEEB CTU was commissioned by KNAUF INSULATION to test selected types of thermal insulation for flat roofs.

Our Structural Engineering research team carried out two types of tests. The first of these was carried out on several types of insulation and on one insulation layer to determine their compressive strength according to EN 826 Thermal insulation products for use in construction - Compression test. The loads were monitored when the test elements were compressed by 5 and 10 %. The compressive strength and modulus of elasticity were then calculated from the data obtained.

In the second type of tests, we simulated point loads. These were carried out in accordance with EN 12430 Thermal insulation products for use in construction - Determination of resistance under point loads. A special indenter with a surface area of 50 cm² was made for these tests. Again, we tested several types of insulation and one layer. We monitored the load at a deformation of 5 mm and at a deformation of 20% of the specimen height. Subsequently, we determined the strength and modulus of elasticity of the test specimens by calculation.