Mould susceptibility of bio-based insulation materials in modern construction
Abstract This review compares the mould susceptibility of bio-based and conventional insulation. Mould growth poses a risk to building durability and occupant health, with bio-based materials being more susceptible due to their organic composition. However, testing practices limit meaningful comparisons, and laboratory studies often fail to replicate real-world conditions. Recommendations include standardised testing, in-situ monitoring and field studies, and development of antifungal strategies to understand and address mould risk across insulation options.
Authors
- Valeria Cascione (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0238-7208)
- Daniel A. Henk (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1142-3143)
- Joni Wildman
- Andrew Shea
Institutions
- University of Bath (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- npj Materials Degradation
- Published
- 2026-02-16
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1038/s41529-026-00742-7
- Primary Topic
- Hygrothermal properties of building materials
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- European Commission
- HORIZON EUROPE Framework Programme