Experimental and theoretical study of innovative liquid thermal insulation materials to reduce heat loss

This article presents an experimental and theoretical study of the thermophysical properties of an innovative liquid thermal insulation material based on ceramic microspheres and acrylic polymers, aimed at reducing heat loss. The thermal conductivity coefficient was determined for coatings of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm and 4 mm thickness using the steady-state heat flow method. Experiments were conducted using a specially developed apparatus with five thermocouples and an electric heater. Theoretical calculations were performed using the Maxwell-Eucken model to evaluate the equivalent thermal conductivity of composite materials. The results indicate that the apparent thermal conductivity coefficient under the given experimental conditions ranges from λ = 0.00643–0.00687 W/(m·K), which is 5–7 times lower than that of traditional thermal insulation materials (mineral wool, expanded polystyrene). The material provides effective thermal insulation even at 1 mm thickness. Economic analysis indicates that the application of the material results in energy savings of 30–40% and a payback period of 1.5–2 years. The study also highlights the material's advantages, including corrosion resistance, environmental safety, and ease of application on complex surfaces. Keywords: microsphere, liquid thermal insulation, thermal conductivity coefficient, energy efficiency, Maxwell-Eucken model, payback period