NBT Launches Pavaflex High Performance Insulation

Natural Building Technologies has launched Pavaflex, an ultra high performance, natural insulation manufactured from sustainable wood fibre. Supplied as an easy to handle insulating batt, Pavaflex provides a simple, sustainable way of delivering excellent levels of both thermal and acoustic insulation for lofts, walls and floors. Being fully breathable, the insulation ensures a building structure is also able to self regulate moisture levels to prevent the formation of interstitial or internal condensation, preventing damp and mould growth and, thereby, safeguarding a healthy living environment.

Pavaflex’s high density (55 Kg/m3) means the batts are self-supporting and not subject to slumping. In addition, they also have high levels of thermal mass, which provides effective insulation against summertime overheating.

With a thermal conductivity of just 0.038 W/mK, heat transfer through the material is minimised, while Pavaflex’s complex non-woven structure also reduces heat loss through convection. Its vapour-open, hygroscopic properties, which enable it to regulate moisture levels, also mean there is no heat loss through dampness.

Simple, natural, non-reacting compounds added to the material provide protection against insects, biological and fungal attack and make it unattractive to vermin. In addition, Pavaflex is CE marked, has a Euroclass E fire protection rating, and is approved for use as loft, wall and ceiling insulation. It is also free from CFCs and VOCs and does not constitute a waste hazard on disposal.

Pavaflex batts are available in lengths of 1.35m and widths of 375mm and 575mm. Thicknesses range from 40mm to 240mm, in 20 mm increments, with a 50mm thick batt also available. Standard thicknesses of 50mm, 80mm, 100mm and 140mm are available as stock items. Batts are easily cut to size with a knife or wood saw. Completely safe to handle, Pavaflex is simple to install, with the batts’ elastic form providing the flexibility to achieve a tight, snug fit while maintaining its size and shape.

Pavaflex is not suitable for use in masonry cavity walls or beneath ground floor slabs.