Eco-Friendly Insulation Reduces Energy Bills.

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed an eco-friendly alternative insulation made without harmful blowing agents. The nontoxic thermoplastic foam is made using hollow glass spheres and expandable polymer microspheres. The technology is readily adoptable by industry and opens avenues to develop safer composite foams for a variety of insulation systems. The need for ongoing research into insulation materials is ongoing, since space heating, cooling, and ventilation account for 35% of energy consumption for buildings — 29% commercial and 41% residential.