Investigation of thermophysical properties of alates (swarmers) termite wing as potential raw material for insulation

Abstract

Thermo physical properties of Alates (Swarmers) termite wing has been investigated. The result of our investigation shows the values of thermo physical parameters of the sample materials as 0.0403Wm -1 K -1 being the mean thermal conductivity value, bulk density of 188. 8kgm-3 and thermal diffusively value being 8.2485 x 10 -8 m 2 s -1 . The values are within the values for commonly used insulating materials. Comparing the rate of cooling as well as heat absorption into the material as lagging material with the performance of fiberglass and cork, Alate's wing is adjudged to be a potential insulating raw material.