Exploring Advancements in Bio-Based Composites for Thermal Insulation: A Systematic Review

The growing need to mitigate the environmental impact of human activities has underscored the importance of biomaterials in sustainable architecture and construction. In this systematic review, advancements in bio-composite materials are consolidated and critically evaluated, emphasizing their thermal insulation properties and broader applications in sustainable building practices. Key aspects analyzed included morphology, internal structure, and thermal performance, along with supplementary insights into mechanical properties when available. The review focused on studies published between January and October 2024, sourced from the Scopus database and adhering to PRISMA guidelines. A keyword meta-analysis using VOSviewer (version 1.6.20) illustrated keyword co-occurrence trends. Methods for assessing bias included evaluating study design, data collection processes, and potential conflicts of interest, aligned with PRISMA standards. Significant findings revealed bio-composites achieving thermal conductivity values as low as 0.016 W/m·K, surpassing many traditional materials in insulation performance. Data from 48 studies, analysing 50 bio-composite materials, showed that 44% were optimized for thermal insulation and 40% for sub-structural applications. These materials also exhibit biodegradability and recyclability, critical attributes for sustainable construction. However, challenges such as scalability and durability remain as the key barriers to widespread adoption. In this review, the viability of bio-composites as sustainable alternatives to traditional materials is highlighted and research priorities are identified, particularly in scaling production technologies and enhancing durability testing methods, to advance their application in sustainable building practices.