Expanded polystyrene, generally known as EPS, is a material with unique physical and technological features that make it suitable for wide range of applications. The most frequent ones, among others, are those related to moisture resistance, mechanic resistance, and thermic, insulation, and acoustic insulation.
EPS, a closed-cell foam made of hollow spheres of plastic, is ideal for a wide range of applications since it is available in a wide range of densities, which give it distinct physical qualities. It has a density of 11 to 32 kilos per square metre.
Almost all of the air in polystyrene foams is air. There are a variety of uses for expanded polystyrene foam, including thermal insulation, cushioning, and product protection. These uses might be for personal or professional use.
EPS is the perfect material for a variety of tasks, most notably insulation and packaging, across a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, construction, the food industry, electronics, and so on. This is because of its lightweight and high resistance.
ISOVER, which is a global company that has been selling EPS and other insulation materials of the best quality since 1936. This material offers a few great benefits in construction projects as discussed in the following.
1. Thermal insulation
The closed cell structure of EPS, which is composed of 98% air and is held together by a cellular polymer matrix, results in a very low thermal conductivity.
This has a tremendous impact on the construction sector, leading to much less heat loss and significantly more energy-efficient structures.
2. Material and labour saving
In addition to being incredibly affordable, EPS just needs one waterproof membrane as opposed to two for the alternatives.
Without the need for safety precautions like protective clothes, masks, or goggles, it is also easier to handle, carry, store, and cut on-site. This entails significant labour and material cost savings.
3. Lightweight
EPS is one of the lightest building materials because it is made up of 98% air. In terms of handling, transportation, and fuel expenses, this has considerable positive effects.
4. Mechanical strength
High compressive strength for load-bearing applications is one level of mechanical strength that can be added to EPS during manufacturing to suit specific applications.
5. Versatile and durable
Expanded polystyrene could be used in foundations or in combination with conventional building materials like –
- Steel
- Bitumen-based DPM
- Mortar
- Concrete
- Cement
- Plaster
- Brick
Since it is non-hygroscopic, moisture from the air cannot be easily absorbed or retained by it. Additionally, it is rot-proof, which makes it perfect for applications involving direct ground contact in substructures. It does not need to be stored in a dry environment indoors, and it does not get brittle or soggy.
6. Environmentally safe and recyclable
EPS is harmless, inert, and free of CFCs or HCFCs. Animal, bacterial, or fungal growth are not supported. Where facilities are available, EPS can be simply recycled or usefully recovered.
In addition, EPS is frequently utilised for safety purposes in a variety of sectors, including the automobile industry, the manufacture of bicycle and motorcycle helmets, child car seats, racetrack road barriers, and so on. Other products that employ it include surfboards, light and model planes, gliders, and other items.
