Towards Sustainable Insulation in Egypt: A Simulation-Based Review of Sheep Wool Performance in Hot Climate Buildings

Hetimy, Sulava Abbas; Megahed, Naglaa; Abo Einan, Osama; Elgheznawy, Dalia

doi:10.21608/pserj.2025.371307.1400

Towards Sustainable Insulation in Egypt: A Simulation-Based Review of Sheep Wool Performance in Hot Climate Buildings

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Architecture and Urban Planning Engineering, faculty of Engineering, port Said University, Port Said, Egypt

² Faculty of Engineering, Port Said University

³ faculty of engineering port said university

⁴ Faculty of Engineering. Port said University

10.21608/pserj.2025.371307.1400

Abstract

Considering Egypt's growing population and increasing energy demand, this study presents a structured review of existing simulation-based research on sheep wool fiber as a sustainable thermal insulator; no new simulations were conducted. With the escalation of climate change, the demand for environmentally friendly building materials that help reduce carbon footprints has become increasingly urgent. However, there is still limited research addressing the application of sheep wool insulation specifically in Egypt's hot climate. To support the study’s focus on hot climates, the literature was organized into two main sections: one covering all climate types and another focused solely on hot climates. Out of 14 identified simulation-based studies on sheep wool insulation, five specifically addressed hot-climate applications, helping to highlight relevant research scope. The paper involved a detailed examination and comparison of these simulation-based results, with particular attention to key performance indicators such as thermal Performance, energy efficiency, and environmental impact. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness and limitations of sheep wool insulation in hot environments relevant to Egypt. Unlike conventional synthetic insulators, sheep wool is a renewable, biodegradable material that requires less energy to produce, resulting in a smaller carbon footprint. Despite these environmental advantages, its widespread use in Egypt is currently constrained by several challenges. Nevertheless, the findings suggest that, with supportive policies and improvements in supply chain infrastructure, sheep wool insulation could play a significant role in enhancing the sustainability of buildings in Egypt’s hot climate and contribute meaningfully to climate change mitigation efforts.

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