Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a closed, hard celled thermoplastic foam material made from polystyrene solid beads that include a dissolved expansion gas that were polymerized styrene monomer.
Large EPS blocks can be moulded into precise custom forms using a second heat treatment and a mould since the expanded cells occupy around 40 times the volume of the initial polystyrene bead.
Let us try to learn more about EPS on this post.
- Available at low cost
EPS is the most economical rigid insulation when compared to other options. For instance, 100 mm thick PIR is required to create a thermal resistance of 4.54 m2KW.
As an alternative, you might specify EPS, which is somewhat thicker at 135 mm but still offers a cost savings of up to 50% over PIR.
- Thermal performance
Expanded polystyrene EPS is a straightforward, efficient insulator thanks to its structural design. While conventional white EPS is what most people are familiar with, there is also enhanced grey EPS available.
- Lightweight
Since it contains only 2% plastic and 98% air, EPS is a very light substance. Construction materials that are lightweight can be a wonderful option because they are often more environmentally friendly than heavier materials and are very convenient to carry.
- Compressive strength
Despite being lightweight, EPS has excellent compressive strength and rigidity thanks to its distinctive structure. This means that it is excellent for many applications in building and civil engineering.
- Durability
When specified and installed properly, EPS is a long-lasting, rot-proof, and permanent material. No deficiency effects should be anticipated over a life cycle of 100 years, and it will remain effective for the duration of any application.
As EPS is inert, when it is buried in the ground, it will not leak into the soil or groundwater.
- Water resistant
Because EPS has a closed cell structure, it does not absorb much water and possesses mechanical and thermal qualities that are unaffected by humidity.
When utilised in well-drained applications, there is little difference in weight; nevertheless, EPS will noticeably increase in weight by about 0.7% if put in a submerged application.
- Reaction to fire
EPS is combustible like many building materials, including lumber, hence it should be taken into account along with all the other components that make up the entire building element to provide an overall fire rating.
The manufacturing process can incorporate a fire-retardant additive (FRA), which prevents the spread of fire in its early stages.
- Safe to use
EPS is completely safe to use in all construction applications because it is non-toxic, chemically inert, non-irritating, and odourless.
- Easy to install
Since EPS is lightweight, it may be manually transported and placed on the job site without the need for specialised tools or knowledge. Using a hand saw or hot wire cutter, EPS can be cut to size on the spot.
- Sustainability
Outstanding sustainability credentials are offered by EPS. There are no HCFCs or CFCs in it. It has zero potential to deplete the ozone layer, little potential to increase global temperatures, and is 100% recyclable over much of its life cycle.
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