Biocomposite to enhance heat transfer of wood (Shorea faguetiana & Palaquim sp.) for green building in Malaysia

In this study, the performance of bio-composite on wood to enhance heat transfer is investigated. Three types of biocomposites were prepared by different types of raw material. Types of raw material used are rice husk, mixture of saw dust and coconut fiber and mixture of clay and coconut fiber. Then, the biocomposites were installed in the house models that made from Nyatoh and Meranti. The data of indoor and outdoor were taken at the open spaces at 12.00 pm every day. While on 25 November, the data were recorded every 2 hours for 24 hours. The result from this study shows that biocomposites have ability to improve heat transfer of wood and reduce indoor temperature although in small amount. The clay biocomposites show highest heat reduction. The analysis through simulation also been done to predict the contour and distribution of heat inside the house model. The result from experimental and simulation were compared and found a slight difference of result between these two methods. It is proven that simulation analysis by computational fluid dynamics is a good tool for thermal prediction on tested materials.