SheepWool
Thermal insulation from sheep shearing. The only insulation material that actively purifies indoor air by permanently capturing formaldehyde (VOCs) and regulates humidity up to 33% of its own weight without losing thermal performance.
The wool acts as a chemical lung: it filters indoor air capturing aldehydes emitted by furniture and industrial adhesives. Moisture absorbed at 33% by weight is released back slowly, stabilising indoor microclimate.
A by-product of sheep farming often regarded as waste, sheep's wool is in fact one of nature's most technologically advanced materials. In construction, it offers thermo-hygrometric performance that no synthetic polymer can match.
Unlike other inert insulators, sheep's wool is chemically active. The fibres are composed of keratin, an amino-acid protein capable of reacting with formaldehyde molecules and other VOCs present in building air. Through a chemisorption process, the wool captures these toxic substances irreversibly, turning the insulation into a true permanent air filter.
Sheep's wool possesses a unique thermodynamic behaviour called heat of sorption. When ambient humidity rises, the fibre absorbs water vapour, releasing energy in the form of heat. Conversely, when the air becomes dry, it releases moisture, cooling the environment and actively preventing the formation of surface condensation.
Standards
European and international references applicable.
Physical properties
Usage environment
To prevent moth and insect attack, sheep wool fibres are treated with boron salts or permanent moth-proofing agents. These are non-toxic mineral treatments that do not alter the breathability or chemical reactivity of the keratin.
Documented applications
TAV. DRoof and loft insulation
Ideal for insulating timber roofs thanks to its flexibility and active vapour management.
Timber frame cavities
Filling Timber Frame cavities to maximise indoor air quality through formaldehyde capture.
Historic building restoration
Insulation of historic buildings where compatibility with natural materials is mandatory.
Ecological acoustic panels
Acoustic correction of interior spaces via exposed sound-absorbing panels in carded wool.
Hygric Buffer Capacity (% of weight in absorbable vapour, without apparent wetness)
TAV. ESheep wool can absorb moisture vapour up to 33% of its own weight without the fibres appearing wet or losing thickness. This sorption heat effect releases actual warmth when humidity rises (on cold nights) and provides cooling when humidity drops (on hot days), acting as a passive domestic microclimate stabiliser.
Operational documents from this sheet
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