What does moisture entering the thermal barrier affect?

Moisture entering the thermal barrier primarily affects the air pockets by displacing the air contained within them. The thermal barrier is designed to provide insulation by trapping air in these pockets; however, when moisture infiltrates, it can fill these spaces and replace the air. This is critical because the presence of air in these pockets is essential for maintaining the barrier's thermal resistance.

When air is displaced by moisture, it can significantly diminish the insulating properties of the thermal barrier. Water conducts heat more efficiently than air, which means that the thermal conductivity increases when moisture is present. Therefore, understanding the role of moisture in impact on air pockets helps in recognizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of thermal barriers in various applications, particularly in fire protection and safety contexts.