Vacuum insulation panel products: A state-of-the-art review and future research pathways

VIPs have been utilized with success for applications such as freezers and thermal packaging, and during the last decade they have also been used for building applications in increasing numbers, where one of the main driving forces is the increased focus on e.g. passive houses, zero energy buildings and zero emission buildings. Hence, VIPs are now in the early market stages as a building product. Implementation of VIPs in various building constructions have given an increased interest in the possibilities of this product, both in new and refurbished constructions. Even though there is not enough data to conclude the effect over a lifetime of a building yet, the immediate result in decreased energy usage can be seen. However, the problem of guaranteeing a set lifetime expectancy, along with high costs, are some of the major reasons why VIPs are met with scepticism in the building industry. Aiming to give better quality assurance for the users, make further advances in envelope technologies and the development of core materials, along with a further cost reduction, are crucial aspects for VIPs to become a competing thermal insulation solution for buildings.