With increasing demands for sustainable construction and energy efficiency, there is a growing need for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional insulation materials such as fiberglass and polyurethane foams.

The project Eco-Friendly Wood Insulation Phase Change Solutions (EWIPCS) aims to develop wood-based composites that combine the natural advantages of wood with advanced technologies for heat storage and regulation. The project started early in 2025 and will run through November 2026.

The project is coordinated by Dr. Matthew Schwarzkopf from University of Primorska, in collaboration with the University of Silesia in Katowice, and is funded under the Transform4Europe Seed Funding program.

EWIPCS aims to enhance thermal comfort in buildings through thermal and chemical modifications of wood that will improve its porosity and microstructure. This treated wood will allow effective incorporation of phase-change materials (PCMs), which are expected to increase energy density and improve thermal regulation in buildings, contributing to a more stable indoor environment and reduced energy consumption.

Research activities will also focus on improving moisture resistance of wood, which is crucial for maintaining its durability and functionality. PCM materials enriched with nanoparticles will be integrated into wood to enhance thermal conductivity and stability. Researchers will conduct extensive laboratory testing of the treated wood to assess the thermal properties, leakage and durability, and create demonstration samples for service life assessment.

Expected outcomes of EWIPCS will contribute to the development of eco-friendly, energy-efficient and durable building materials that can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and promote sustainable construction practices across Europe.

Authors: Lea Primožič, dr. Matthew Schwarzkopf, Lara Prah