Key terms glossary

–

An essential list of definitions to understand the most important concepts in our industry. Clear, simple and always up-to-date to facilitate your experience.

  • Ceramic microspheres: Tiny hollow spheres of ceramic material are used as a key component in Natis insulation products. They provide high thermal insulation due to their ability to block heat flow.
  • Micro-hood: A thin thermal insulation coating, applied by trowel, roller or spray, based on ceramic microspheres, binder and resins.
  • Thermal shield: The reflective property of Natis insulation helps disperse thermal radiation, reducing heat transfer.
  • EPS (expanded polystyrene): A commonly used traditional hydrocarbon-based (alternative: petroleum derivative) insulation material.
  • Breathability: The ability of a material to allow water vapour to pass through, preventing the accumulation of moisture and potential problems such as mould growth.
  • VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds): Organic chemicals that can easily evaporate at room temperature and can be harmful to health and the environment.
  • Levelling: A thin layer of material, such as plaster or Natis paste, applied to a surface to make it homogenous, protect it and prepare it for the application of the finish.
  • Thermal bridge: A point in the construction of a building where heat can easily transfer, reducing the overall effectiveness of the insulation (e.g. balcony slab, window sills, etc.).
  • Thermal Conductivity: The ability of a material to transfer heat.
  • Thermal Reflectance: The ability of a material to reflect thermal energy.
  • Nanotechnology: it is a field of applied sciences and technologies dealing with the control of matter on an atomic and molecular scale in the nanometre range. In the case of Natis, nanotechnology is used to create the hollow ceramic microspheres, which exponentially increase the insulating properties.
  • RetrofittingImprovement of an existing building by installing an insulation system from scratch or in addition to the existing one. Natis insulation can be used for both new construction and retrofitting or renovation.