BioSIPs

BioSIPs use 4' x 8' gridcore sheets made up of 100% recycled paper products that are formed into a honeycomb grid ¾" thick. The sheets are placed in a form and held 6" apart while soy-based foam insulation is sprayed into the cavity. Prior to spraying in the foam, electric conduit chases made of cardboard poster tubes are placed within the walls according to the structure's electrical layout. At each seam a wood I-beam is used to connect the SIPs panels, while the top and bottom are connected using a 2" x 6" plate that runs the length of each wall. A major benefit of the BioSIP panel is that the gridcore surfaces are finish quality and can be painted like typical gypsum board. The approximate insulating value for the BioSIP panel is R-40.

BioSIPs were used on the 2005 Colorado University (CU) solar decathlon home. Julee Herdt, an associate professor at CU, developed the product under a USDA research project. Julee and the USDA are currently designing and testing the various properties, possible shapes, and panel thicknesses. They are looking to make the panel more efficient and to determine the minimum amount of materials necessary to retain structural integrity.

Contact:

Julee Herdt, Associate Professor
Architecture and Planning, Colorado University
Phone: 303-492-2536
Cell: 303-946-3951
Fax: 303-492-6163
Email: Julee.herdt@colorado.edu