Introduction
In this experiment, we will compare the straw insulator with conventional insulators by comparing the insulation value of conventional insulators (commonly used today) like fibreglass and solid foam sheet with straw insulation.
We hypothesized that the straw would perform as the best insulator for soundproofing and heat retention, although it is a little bit impossible.
Aim
To compare the straw insulator with conventional insulators.
Theory
1. To prove our hypothesis, we build two tests. And for each test, we designed four similar structures and used different types of insulators in each test.
2. We created four stud frames that are identical in the volume of 2,43 cubic feet.
3. We insulated the first frame with straw, the second frame with a solid frame, the third with fiberglass, and left the fourth one with no insulation. The non-insulated frame would act as the controller.
4. A material that does not allow the heat to pass through is termed a heat insulator.
5. A material that does not let the sound pass through its surface is termed a sound insulator.
Straw is the traditional sound and heat insulator
Requirements
1. Solid frame
2. Fiberglass
3. Straw
4. A speaker
5. Thermometer
6. Notebook
Procedure
Step 1: In the first experiment, we will find out which insulation is the most soundproof. And for this, we will perform this experiment by sending sound through each of the materials.
Step 2: Play a constant sound of 100 decibels in a speaker and place this speaker inside each of the four structures.
Step 3: Measure the number of decibels that came out through the wall of each of the structures.
Step 4: The insulator that does not allow the most decibels to come out from the wall of the structure will act as the best soundproof insulation.
Step 5: In the second experiment, we will test which kind of insulator will keep the house warm in the cold. For this, we performed heat retention by exposing each of the structures to outdoor temperature and checking how quickly they cool down.
Step 6: Warm each of the structures until the inside temperature of each box falls in the range of 68 and 70 degrees.
Step 7: Take these structures outside the house and record the fall in the inside temperature of each box for twelve hours.
Step 8: Check which insulation drops the temperature the slowest. The insulation which drops the temperature slightly will act as the best heat insulator.
Step 9: Record all your observations in a notebook.
Observation
1. We observed that the straw allowed almost no sound to pass through it. Therefore, it acted as the best soundproof insulation.
2. In the second experiment, the straw retained temperature for a longer time. It even cooled down slowly and attained the highest ending temperature.
Result
1. Our hypothesis, in which we assumed that the straw would be the best heating and sound insulator, was correct.
2. Straw proved to be the best heat insulator and soundproofing material among fibreglass, solid frame, and air.
Precaution
1. Do not heat the structure at a higher temperature.
2. Wear gloves to protect your hand.
3. All the structures should have the same height and volume.
Conclusion
The experiment was to compare the straw insulator with conventional insulators. We concluded that straw has more insulation value and proved to be a better insulator than conventional insulation.
Viva Questions With Answers
Q.1 What was the aim of your experiment?
ANS. We aimed to compare the straw insulator with conventional insulators and determine which insulator is best among conventional insulators (fiberglass and foam sheet) and straw insulators.
Q.2 Which insulator proved to have the best heat retention quality?
ANS. Straw insulation retained heat more than others and proved to be the best heat insulator.
Q.3 Which insulator insulated the most sound?
ANS. Straw is the best soundproofing insulation.
Saquib Siddiqui is a Mechanical Engineer with expertise in science projects and experiments. Saquib’s work focuses on integrating scientific concepts with practical applications, making complex ideas accessible and exciting for learners of all ages. In addition to his practical work, Saquib has authored several articles, research papers, and educational materials.
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