Scientists invent popcorn-based home insulation material that’s waterproof and biodegradable

The plant-based material is a sustainable alternative to current building insulation products

Scientists have created building insulation boards with ‘granulated’ popcorn that are more sustainable and environmentally friendly compared to their petroleum-based, non-biodegradable counterparts (Karl Bachl GmbH & Co. KG)

Popcorn could soon be used to create sustainable insulation for buildings, replacing the current non-biodegradable materials.

Scientists have invented a method to create sustainable building insulation boards using “granulated” popcorn with “excellent” thermal insulation properties and good protection against fire.

The plant-based, environmentally friendly material is a sustainable alternative to current building insulation products that are derived from petroleum, said scientists from the University of Göttingen in Germany in a press release issued on 16 November.

About 90 per cent of the materials currently used to make insulation for buildings are made of plastics or mineral fibre, which are non-biodegradable, according to the scientists.

These materials generate carbon dioxide during their manufacturing stages and are also rarely recycled when a building is torn down, contributing to pollution and making them unsustainable.

Conventional insulating materials made of polystyrene also tend to damage the environment, the scientists pointed out, adding that the polymer is also ingested by marine life when it is discarded and finds its way into the oceans.

Studies have also found links between the ingestion of polystyrene and cancer, impaired memory and effects on the nervous system.

On the contrary, the researchers said, granulated popcorn is similar to polystyrene and just as lightweight, without having the synthetic material’s downsides.

In their research, which is yet to be peer-reviewed, the scientists developed insulation boards made of granulated popcorn. These boards trap warmth, are water repellent and also offer good protection against fire.

“This new process, based on that of the plastics industry, enables the cost-effective production of insulation boards at an industrial scale,” Alireza Kharazipour, head of the research group from the University of Göttingen, said in a statement.

“Especially in the field of insulation in construction, this ensures that natural insulation materials are no longer just niche products,” Dr Kharazipour added.

The scientists believe the thermal insulation and water-repellent properties of the new material can open up more opportunities for practical applications and also extend its useful life.

“Popcorn insulation complements our quality range perfectly and means we can respond even more precisely to the different requirements of the market and our customers,” Michael Küblbeck, group Managing Director of the exclusive divisional licensing partner Bachl, added.