A research program is proposed to determine the feasibility Or using advanced vacuum insulation's to improve the productivity of refrigerated shipping containers while avoiding the environmental risks associated with chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's) in foam insulation currently being used. Advanced vacuum insulation's, currently under research and development, do not contain CFC's and have very high thermal resistance's, up to R 100 per inch, versus R7 per inch for CFC blown foam. The advanced insulation can be manufactured in modular panel shapes for easy assembly in the factory or for repairs in the field. The research would determine preliminary structural and thermal design of modular panels, life cycle costs, and overall concept feasibility.
Anticipated Results:It is anticipated that the proposed research will lead to a more productive refrigerated shipping container through the use of superior insulation of reduced thickness, and through development of modular insulation panels that are easily assembled in the factory or repaired in the field. This shipping container would also lead to reduced refrigeration equipment size and energy consumption, and, increase US. competitiveness in the worldwide shipping container manufacturing market.
