Expanded polystyrene (aka expanded polystyrene, aka polystyrene) is a heater that has become widespread in construction work related to the device of thermal insulation.
Expanded polystyrene and its types
The material is obtained by foaming synthetic polystyrene with steam and natural gas. The cured foam balls are 98% air and only 2% polystyrene. The finished material is cut into sheets of standard sizes.
Extrusion expanded polystyrene has increased strength. Its other names are technonikol expanded polystyrene (from the name of the manufacturer), etc. It is made by foaming under pressure, the increased strength allows the use of extruded insulation in load-bearing structures. When making balls of material that are not fastened to each other in a flat sheet, granular polystyrene foam is obtained - a mound of foam balls with a diameter of up to 8 mm.
The high popularity of the material is associated with its low cost, combined with excellent thermal insulation properties and ease of handling (delivery, installation). According to statistics, 80% of insulation work is performed using two types of synthetic insulation - ordinary and extruded polystyrene foam.
How great are the characteristics of expanded polystyrene and what effect can be achieved when insulating with this material?
How heat loss occurs
The fact that houses radiate warmth has been known for a long time. In the spring, the paths along the walls are freed from snow earlier, the attic space of the house is always warmer than the outside air. However, it became possible to see the amount of heat loss only in the middle of the 20th century. The appeared devices for measuring heat fluxes - began to determine and show the dimensions of heat. Rising prices for heating, rising costs of heating were complemented by stunning pictures in which houses were photographed in infrared radiation, where the contours of the warm background around the buildings were clearly visible.
An American thermal survey of the territory of the USSR from space showed the general thermal glow of residential buildings, which, against the background of isolated houses in Europe, gave the impression of heating the air.
According to thermal imagers, about 40-50% occurs through window openings and 20-30% was lost through walls and construction joints. The rest of the losses fall on the roof and ventilation.
Insulation of buildings
Reducing heat loss through the walls of the house is achieved by insulating them. It is better to install a layer of insulation from the outside of the heated room, so that the zero point moves from the support wall to the heat insulator.
The list of used materials contains natural and synthetic materials. Felt, batting and tow (natural), glass wool and foam (artificial). Among the materials available on the market, insulation for walls, expanded polystyrene is the most popular. What are the advantages of insulation with this material?
Advantages of insulation
Thermal conductivity of expanded polystyrene (0.037-0.043 W / m * C °) provides thermal insulation higher than that of mineral wool (0.046 W / m * C °), 4 times better than that of wood (0.18 W / m * C °), in 8 times more than dry foam concrete and 20 times more than a brick wall.
Availability... Polyfoam is affordable for almost every homeowner. The cost of sheets depends on the thickness, the best characteristics of extruded polystyrene foam belong to sheets of large thickness (8 - 10 cm).
Manufacturability... Insulation plates are so light that they can be blown away by the wind. Therefore, the installation of the insulation can be done by one person. For high-rise work, the low weight of the heat-insulating material makes it possible to carry out insulation at the height of the 7th, 9th or 14th floor. The slab is easily cut with a saw, it is possible curly cutting of the desired shape. To strengthen the insulation on the wall, glue for expanded polystyrene and additional fasteners - "umbrellas" are used. All of these operations are technologically simple, do not require expensive equipment or high qualifications of the worker and, if necessary, can be performed independently.
Applications
Construction
Walling... The fixed formwork made of expanded polystyrene accelerates construction. Forms for pouring concrete (blocks) are made of insulation material. The resulting structure is characterized by good thermal insulation, technological and easy-to-use, which makes it possible to use expanded polystyrene blocks as a heat-insulated fixed form. Fixed formwork is warmer than wood, stronger than a brick wall and cheaper than aerated concrete.
Thermal insulation of foundations - allows you to avoid freezing of the base, this prevents the appearance of microcracks and increases the durability of the building.
Thermal insulation of floors... It is often used for "warm" floors, where the surface of the flooring serves as a radiator, radiating heat and heating the room. Expanded polystyrene for underfloor heating makes it possible to reduce heat loss into the ground or basement. Thermal insulation of the floor with expanded polystyrene additionally works as vibration and noise insulation for the operation of the floor heating system; for this, plates with grooves are used for laying heating elements.
Thermal insulation of walls and facades... It is produced both outside and inside the building. Insulation of walls from the outside (front) is preferable than from the inside. The result is a multi-layer structure consisting of a load-bearing wall (brick, shell, concrete, adobe), a layer of insulation and a protective coating (plaster or cladding). Insulation of the facade with expanded polystyrene will require additional costs. Obligatory protection of the insulation is made by siding, facing brick or "fur coat". Roof insulation. Due to its low weight, the ceiling tile made of expanded polystyrene is easily installed on the rafters under the roof sheets, does not give additional load on the walls.
- water supply, sewerage, communication cable - allows to reduce the depth of their laying, thereby reducing the cost of plumbing or cable laying work.
Highways, railways, runways - expanded polystyrene plates are installed under the covering, separating it from the freezing soil, thereby increasing the durability of the paved tracks.
The most versatile, suitable for any insulation is "psb with 25".
Industry and business
Beekeeping. Styrofoam hives have a number of advantages: heat capacity (protection from winter cold and summer heat), lightweight construction (important for mobile apiaries), reasonable cost (they are cheaper than wooden ones). Some enterprises organize the production of foam beehives. An interesting combined solution would be a wooden beehive with foam insulation, which is located between the outer and inner layers of wooden boards. Such evidence has a natural wood surface and at the same time protects the bee family from frost -30 -40˚C.
Packaging... Almost any modern packaging contains foam parts. Glass and ceramic dishes, medicinal ampoules, boxes with appliances (laptop, washing machine, TV). Styrofoam for packaging is made with grooves that repeat the shape of the object. The seal prevents the goods from moving along the packaging, protects it from possible impact. Also, perishable food is insulated with foam during transportation.
Depreciation... The foam is placed on the inner surface of construction helmets, bicycle helmets, ski helmets, etc.
Filler... Insulation granules are used as fillers for soft toys and furniture.
The effectiveness of using foam for insulation is confirmed by many positive reviews. When using extruded foam, according to reviews, a more reliable and durable thermal insulation is formed, which generally pays for its overpriced. The presence of controversy about the usefulness and breathability of synthetic foam only confirms the fact that foam is widespread. They insulate everything that requires insulation, the location of the insulation - in almost any accessible place.
Extruded polystyrene foam what is it? Extruded (extruded) polystyrene foam is a synthetic material for thermal insulation, developed by an American construction company in the 50s of the twentieth century. It is made using foaming technology, it contains polymer compositions. The material is pressed through a special mold and joins into a single piece.
Produced in the form of slabs, substrates. It is found on the market as a decorative element. The standard size of the slabs is 600x1200 or 600x2400 mm. Standard sizes are established by GOSTs, but many companies change the dimensions by making plates of different widths. The size is 580 mm wide. The thickness of the elements varies from 20 mm to 10 cm, depending on the manufacturer.
Material is delivered to retail outlets in packages of several elements. The number of units in one package depends on the thickness of the products. For example, if the thickness of the slabs is 5 cm, the package usually contains 8 items. With a thickness of 10 cm, 4 plates are packed.
Additional Information: production of polystyrene foam is possible as a floor covering. The modern market offers materials for laminate, parquet, linoleum. It is possible to manufacture decorative elements based on the material. They look exactly like plaster.
Like any other material, extruded polystyrene foam has advantages and some disadvantages. It is worth reading them before purchasing and using them.
Advantages of extruded polystyrene foam:
- Moisture absorption within 0.2%. This indicator means almost complete waterproofing.
- The minimum indicator of thermal conductivity. At a standard temperature of 25 ° C, it is about 0.032 W / m * K. If we compare the conductivity of heat, according to the indicators, we get the following: 55 cm of brick is equal to 3 cm of expanded polystyrene.
- Withstands deformation well. You can use it for masonry under the blind area, lay after the foundation.
- Does not react with inorganic chemicals.
- Withstands significant temperature changes, the indicators do not change at an air temperature from -50 to +75 o C.
- According to the documentation, the material can be used for at least half a century. During this time, the characteristics will not change.
- Environmentally friendly substance. It is used not only as insulation, but, for example, for the production of light disposable plates or other types of cheap dishes. Children's toys are made from it.
- Has a minimum weight. Small thickness is enough for good insulation.
In addition to numerous positive characteristics, there are some disadvantages:
- comparison with other types of insulation shows that the price of the material is high;
- strong flammability. In the process of combustion, harmful substances, black smoke are emitted;
- under the influence of infrared rays is destroyed. To maintain performance, it is necessary to hide from direct sunlight;
- manufacturers assure that rodents do not start inside the insulation. Indeed, they do not live inside, but often make channels for movement;
- solvents destroy the structure.
In addition to the listed disadvantages, low vapor permeability can be added to them. Sometimes this is a plus, but if it may be moldy. As a result, an unpleasant odor appears in the home, dampness is constantly felt.
Application area
Extruded gray polystyrene foam has a wide range of applications. It is mainly used for insulation works. The scope of use is limited only by temperature indicators (no higher than 75 ° C). The material can be laid in damp places, in the ground.
Usually the scope of use is limited only by financial capabilities. The high cost makes it impractical to use in many places. In places where there is no need for high technical characteristics, instead of PPP, it is used, reviews about which are also positive, in order to save money.
Used for insulation:
- concrete or wooden;
- indoors or outside the building. Compatible with any material;
- ... Often, concrete rings are covered with a material for additional protection;
- surface of the earth. To prevent the destruction of the structure, paint is applied. Even a thin layer will prevent deterioration of the composition.
In addition to these areas, the material is used in road construction. It is part of many refrigeration units, as an extrusion insulation. Used in agriculture. Roofs and underground floors are insulated with expanded polystyrene. One of the promising areas is the production of sandwich panels.
Technical characteristics of extruded polystyrene foam
The material has one of the highest technical characteristics on the market for insulation products. Any gas has a much lower thermal conductivity than solids. For air, the indicator is 0.026 W / m * o C. Extruded polystyrene foam is an air mixture of about 90%. It has a thermal conductivity of 0.03 W / m * o C. Almost like air, which means that heat is retained perfectly.
The material is produced with various density indicators. Manufacturers offer from 25 to 47 kg / m 3. The higher the number, the greater the strength. As the density increases, the strength increases from 20,000 to 50,000 kg / m 2.
Water is poorly absorbed by polystyrene foam. In about a month, one tile can absorb about 0.4% of its own volume if it is completely submerged in water. Further, the percentage of absorbed liquid does not increase, but stops. Vapor permeability is minimal. It is 0.0128 Mg / (m * h * Pa). Often companies specializing in repair work suggest not using a vapor barrier, limiting themselves to using only polystyrene.
The insulation is able to withstand temperatures ranging from -50 to +75 o C. It can be used in almost any climate. High flammability, the class varies depending on the addition of additional substances, from G1 to G4.
Some models have a special notch at the edges. Made to increase the adhesion of the slabs by insulating the seams. This innovation does not allow the formation of layers of cold between the elements, ensuring complete heat retention.
Tests were carried out with expanded polystyrene. Their meaning is repeated freezing, defrosting of wet tiles. It was determined empirically that, without changing the technical characteristics, the material withstands 80 cycles. For users, this information is useful: the composition can withstand approximately so many years during operation.
Additional Information: in comparison with polystyrene, expanded polystyrene wins about 2 times in terms of heat retention. Increased strength, decreased thickness. Compared to other insulation materials, the sound transmission is not very high. The lack of ease of installation is compensated for. It is completely safe for health.
Material selection rules
The demand for expanded polystyrene is high, increasing annually. In order for the insulation to serve as long as possible, to perform all the required functions without failures, it is necessary to make the right purchase. Each manufacturer claims that their product is the best on the market, but this is not always true.
Selection rules:
- Polystyrene is designated by two numbers. If the marking is below the index 28, you should refuse to purchase. Checking is mandatory, some brands of the product are not suitable for facade work, they will not cope with the insulation of the house. Choose material with an index of 40 and higher. The PSB-S-40 brand, a self-extinguishing composition, has proven itself quite well.
- Before buying, see the standards on the basis of which the production was carried out. Many manufacturers make slabs not according to GOSTs, but their own specifications. Possible low-quality goods. Typically, the density is reduced, thereby reducing the cost. You should not be guided by the number of the brand, be sure to familiarize yourself with the characteristics.
- To ensure the high quality of the product, you can break off a small piece from the edge. If small balls are visible at the fracture site, the styrofoam is probably of low grade. The break should have regular polyhedrons. The broken piece is even. The test shows the production method: extrusion, performed on professional equipment, or a handicraft method, like a simple foam.
- Purchase goods from reputable manufacturers. These are "Penoplex" URSA, Knauf and "Technonikol" - Russian. "Basf" or "Novakhimikals" - foreign.
Do not forget that the production of expanded polystyrene is a complex technological process. Manufacturing methods differ for many manufacturers. Some are safe, others can be harmful to human health.
Manufacturer brands
Each brand of expanded polystyrene manufacturer differs from competitors in some features. To understand the variety of the proposed choice, it is worth considering the products of each manufacturer in more detail.
Knauf
Manufacturer from Germany. Production is represented by numerous variants of polystyrene foam.
Heaters are used:
- Knauf Therm Compack. Universal, used for any kind of household thermal insulation. It has a low thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.032 W / mk, high sound insulation properties. Airborne noise reduction index is 47 dB, impact noise is extinguished if the indicator does not exceed 24 dB. Due to its indicators, it is well suited for insulating small rooms.
Supplied with slabs 1х0.6 m long. Thickness 5 cm. Vapor permeability 0.033 mg / mchPa
- Knauf Therm Roof Light. The density is low, 10-15 kg / m³. used to retain heat on the truss frames of houses. Characteristics: heat conductivity 0.034 W / mk, steam conductivity - 0.035 W / mk.
- Knauf Therm Wall - for wall insulation. The indicators are the same as in previous designs, with increased mechanical strength. 60 kPa is an indicator of compressive strength. The choice of plate sizes is wide. Thermal conductivity: 0.033 W / mk, vapor conductivity: 0.032 mg / mhPa. G3 - flammability class.
There are Knauf Therm Flor models, suitable for floor insulation, with a low thermal conductivity of 0.03 W / mk and Knauf Therm 5 in 1. The latter stands out for its maximum strength among all the models of the company. Withstands up to 17 t / m 2.
The URSA foam polystyrene manufacturer from Russia presents several product options.
| Model / Specifications | URSA XPS N-III | URSA XPS N-III-G4 | URSA XPS N-V |
| Thermal conductivity | 0.032 W / mK | 0.032 W / mK | 0.033 W / mK |
| Application temperature | from -50 to +75 | from -50 to +75 | from -50 to +75 |
| Water absorption | 0.3% of the volume in 24 hours | 0.3% of the volume in 24 hours | 0.3% of the volume in 24 hours |
| Vapor permeability coefficient | 0.004 mg / mhPa | 0.004 mg / mhPa | 0.004 mg / mhPa |
| Compressive strength | 25 t / m² | 25 t / m² | 50 t / m² |
Products differ from other manufacturers by increased strength indicators. The material is indispensable for professional construction. One of the most durable options that can withstand significant loads.
Penoplex
Domestic manufacturer of expanded polystyrene. It has a wide range of models. Plates can be used for various insulation options.
There are the following types of products:
- Penoplex Wall
- Penoplex Foundation
- Penoplex Roofing
- Penoplex Comfort
- Penoplex 45
It is considered a leader in the field of insulation materials. Every year the volume of products manufactured has been rapidly increasing. Nowadays, heaters are slightly more expensive than those of competitors on the Russian market, but the quality of the goods is the highest. It specializes in the production of numerous types of various insulation materials. Expanded polystyrene is available in several models.
| Specifications / Model | Technoplex | Carbon Eco | XPS 35-300 | Prof | |
| Thermal conductivity | 0.032 W / mk | 0.029 W / mk | 0.028 W / mk | 0.028 W / mk | |
| Density | from 26 to 35 kg / m³ | 26-32 kg / m³ | 35 kg / m³ | 30 kg / m³ | |
| Compressive strength | 200 kPa | 250 kPa | 400 kPa | 300 kPa | |
| Water absorption | 0.2% | 0.2% | 0.2% | 0.2% | |
| Fire resistance | G4 | G4 | G4 | G4 | |
| Temperature range | -50 ... +75 ° С | -50 ... +75 ° С | -50 ... +75 ° С | -50 ... +75 ° С | |
| Vapor permeability | 0.01 mg / mhPa | 0.011 mg / mhPa | 0.01 mg / mhPa | 0.01 mg / mhPa | |
Frequently asked Questions
- What is better for screed expanded clay or expanded polystyrene?
The coefficient of thermal conductivity of expanded clay is on average 0.12, and of penoplex 0.03 W / m * C. Those. almost an order of magnitude. Thus, in order to ensure the required thermal insulation of the floors, the kermazite backfill will be much thicker than the foam sheets and the like. And as a result, the entire structure of floors with expanded clay will be much thicker than the structure of floors with foam.
- Polyurethane foam or expanded polystyrene which is better?
Having made a comparative analysis of both heaters, we can say the following: polyurethane foam has higher characteristics in noise insulation, moisture resistance, heat resistance. Has a higher fire safety class. However, its thermal conductivity is an order of magnitude lower.
Considering that we are talking about the choice of material for insulation, expanded polystyrene will be the best. Although, given the user experience, there is no need to use a material as high as polystyrene. Therefore, preference when buying should be given to polyurethane foam.
- Is expanded polystyrene harmful to human health?
No, the material is in use. The only thing is that when burning, acrid smoke is released.
- What surfaces cannot be insulated with expanded polystyrene?
It is impossible to insulate surfaces, the temperature of which exceeds the specified limits: -50 ... +75 ° С. Another limitation: in wooden houses where a good vapor barrier is required, it is undesirable to use the material. The formation of mold, mildew between the wall and the insulation is possible. Humid air will not come out of the house. The room will have constant high humidity.
What is Extruded Polystyrene Foam? Universal insulation. It is considered one of the modern samples of materials of this class. When using it, it is worth observing the established temperature standards and other important requirements. If EPS insulation is done correctly, manufacturers give a guarantee for a polystyrene service life of at least 50 years.
To the question "what is expanded polystyrene?" there is a short and concise answer. Polystyrene foam (insulation) is a modern, environmentally friendly material made of substances that are not capable of harming humans.
1 Material features
Foil polystyrene foam, like its other analogues, can be used in places where other types of heat-insulating materials cannot be used due to the fact that capillary rise of groundwater can occur there.
Thus, the use of expanded polystyrene is due to the protection of waterproofing from environmental factors that can cause irreparable harm to it.
The presented material has its own GOST. GOST 15588-86 (it is done) regulates the composition, properties and use of expanded polystyrene.
If we compare the presented insulation with such material as mineral wool, then it is better to prefer the former.
Expanded polystyrene - insulation material for walls
The fact is that mineral wool does not have such a range of useful characteristics, although in some respects it is still better than expanded polystyrene.
In addition, mineral wool is a non-flammable material and it is incapable of harming human health. All this is indicated in the corresponding GOST.
It is best to first of all pay attention to the moisture resistant characteristics of polystyrene foam, which are combined with its ease, reliability and durability.
When choosing a heater, it is best to give preference to expanded polystyrene, since these products are not as heavy as mineral wool and have a high degree of ease of installation.
Externally, this insulation is presented in the form of small granules, which are sintered together under the influence of high temperatures. GOST 15588-86 strictly regulates the size of the granules of the substance.
Their size ranges from 1 to 10 mm and may depend on the intended purpose and the desired density of the product.
GOST also states that expanded polystyrene granules can be heterogeneous in structure.
Each of the granules contains a huge number of thin-walled microscopic cells. This greatly increases the parameter of the contact area of \u200b\u200bthe substance with air.
The presented foam insulation is 98% air, this is why its unique properties are due. Reviews of this material are mostly positive, in addition to excellent heat-insulating properties, it is often mentioned that it cannot harm the human body as.
1.1 Applications of expanded polystyrene
The presented material, due to its outstanding technical and operational characteristics in the construction industry, is used almost everywhere.
Expanded polystyrene can be used as an insulating material. In addition, the product can successfully fulfill the function of a filler.
In some cases, foam can even help resolve problems associated with poor soil quality.
It can be used to form embankments during the construction of roadways or bridges.
Expanded polystyrene PSB-S-35 2000 × 1000x180
2 Properties of expanded polystyrene
The presented material has a rather low specific thermal conductivity. Thus, expanded polystyrene is an almost ideal insulation material that can provide a high heat storage capacity.
This feature is due to the structure of the material, which is almost entirely air.
The thermal conductivity of a substance can fluctuate between 0.032 and 0.043 W / (m ∙ K).
This figure is many times lower than that of wood, brick, expanded clay and other insulation building materials.
A low level of thermal conductivity affects the possibility of a high level of energy supply.
The use of expanded polystyrene as a heat insulator in the construction of buildings allows, during its further operation, to significantly reduce the costs associated with heating.
High energy-saving properties allow the product to be actively used in order to protect pipelines from excessive freezing.
The presented substance provides reliable soundproofing protection against impact noise. This effect is directly related to the ability of a substance to convert sound energy into heat energy.
Proceeding from this, due to the cellular structure of polystyrene foam, the presented material has effective sound-absorbing qualities.
It should be noted that the material has a high degree of structural stability, fluctuating over a wide temperature range.
At the same time, low temperatures are not able to affect the mechanical, chemical and physical parameters of the substance.
With an increase in temperature to + 90 ° C, even during prolonged exposure, expanded polystyrene will not radically change its properties.
Due to the fact that expanded polystyrene is completely synthetic, it is not perceived as food by insects and microorganisms, which does not contribute to their reproduction.
This material is completely unsuitable for bacteria or harmful fungus to survive in it.
The presented product is distinguished by high resistance to diffusion of water vapor and an increased coefficient of moisture resistance.
Products cannot be dissolved in water and cannot absorb it. Thus, the insulation is not subject to deformation and swelling.
This high degree of resistance to moisture contributes to the fact that foam products can be used in order to. This is especially true in situations where the insulation material is in close contact with the ground.
It should be noted that the density index of expanded polystyrene products is quite low and equals 15-50 kg / m³, however, along with this, the substance has a high compressive, tensile and bending strength.
This contributes to the use of the product as a durable building material, which for a long time is able to withstand mechanical stress and at the same time not undergo deformation. Thus, due to the relatively small mass of the rearranged material, you can:
- Do not use special equipment when moving products;
- Reduce construction costs;
- Significantly reduce the time for assembling structures.
In fact, expanded polystyrene elements are plastic, and therefore, with proper use, the material is able to maintain its physical properties unchanged for a long time.
It is worth noting that the foam granules are composed of carbon and hydrogen molecules. This is due to the high degree of environmental friendliness of the material.
Polystyrene foam is non-toxic, dust-free and odorless.
No toxic substances are released from it either. This insulation easily allows air to pass through, and therefore all structures in which it is included "breathe".
Foam blocks are easy to pre-process and do not irritate the skin and mucous membranes
As mentioned above, reviews of expanded polystyrene are mostly positive.
Vitaly, 38 years old, Kaluga:
I decided to do the insulation of the apartment and start with the loggia. I used polystyrene as an insulating material. Perfectly cut and assembled. I advise you to use it.
Sergey, 54 years old, Vologda:
I have an outbuilding in the yard of a private house. I decided to insulate its walls in order to live in it until late autumn. Used polystyrene foam plates. Now the heat keeps very well inside. I recommend this material to everyone.
Vasily, 35 years old, Voronezh
I am engaged in the sale of insulation and building materials. Clients dismantle expanded polystyrene from the counter almost immediately. Everyone is very happy with it.
2.1 Which is better to choose: foam or mineral wool?
Minvata clearly loses to foam in terms of thermal insulation properties. The thermal conductivity of expanded polystyrene is much better.
However, mineral wool has excellent fire safety indicators. This product is highly resistant to fire.
Foam has no such stability. The level of thermal conductivity of the foam is at a height and mineral wool loses significantly to it.
Mineral wool is highly resistant to spontaneous combustion. The vapor permeability characteristic of mineral wool is much superior to that of its competitor.
Along with this, the foam has a very high degree of hygroscopicity, therefore the foam can be used in an environment with a high degree of humidity and has a low cost.
The convenience of foam lies in the fact that its weight is several times less than the weight of mineral wool, in addition, this material can be processed with ease of inaccessible mineral wool.
There is one drawback - polystyrene foam plates are docked with each other with some difficulties. On the other hand, mineral wool has a high degree of resistance to almost all types of organic matter and fungi.
Along with this, expanded polystyrene is largely susceptible to the effects of all kinds of organic solvents, but fungi and mold do not take root on it.
It is obvious that the process of making the choice of insulation is a complex and multifaceted task. In order to solve it with a high degree of efficiency, it is necessary to carefully consider the prevailing conditions and their own priorities as well.
It is important to give preference to only well-proven heating systems. We must also remember about the correct selection of the most optimal thickness of the thermal insulation material.
Mineral wool is able to pass moisture through itself with sufficient ease. This indicates that this material is indispensable when insulating a house built of wood or beams.
It is important to remember that wood rot quickly underneath the foam layer. In this case, you should first take care of the installation of the so-called parabarrier, and then fix the crate.
Mineral slabs, in most cases, are laid in two layers. This is done so that so-called “cold bridges” are not created.
From above, the material is covered with a film that provides waterproofing. When insulating a balcony, preference is almost always given to expanded polystyrene, since during installation it is not necessary to use a crate, which has a positive effect on saving the balcony area.
You should immediately pay attention to the fact that the selected insulation must necessarily correspond to the climatic conditions in which it is used.
2.2 Pros and cons of expanded polystyrene (video)
Every year the winters in our country are becoming more severe. Severe frosts and snow cause a lot of trouble for residents of country houses, especially those who have not insulated their homes in advance.
The issue of thermal insulation should definitely be dealt with even at the stage of preparing documentation for the construction of a house, well, if this is not possible, then, thanks to modern materials, insulation can be performed on the finished building.
Currently, the choice of materials for thermal insulation of private houses is quite wide. However, there is one material that is distinguished by its unique performance characteristics, low cost and ease of installation - this is extruded polystyrene.
Production technology
By itself, polystyrene for wall insulation is a special heat-insulating material that is made from granules of polymer styrene (thermoplastic polymer). The structure of the substance resembles classical foam plastic, but differs from it in production technology.
Sheet polystyrene is produced for insulating buildings by mixing granules of the substance with a special foaming powder, dyes and other additives. Under the influence of high temperatures, the material is squeezed out of the extruder in the form of special plates. After the plate is cooled and cut to a certain size (for each manufacturer, as a rule, it differs).
Thanks to the use of this technology, the insulator acquires unique performance characteristics, including additional sound insulation, resistance to moisture, durability and strength. The structure of the material is uniform, consists of small cells, each of which has a size of 0.1-0.3 mm.
To prevent the ignition of extruded insulation, flame retardants are added to its composition - substances that are resistant to open flames and high temperatures.
Characteristics and features
The heat-insulating material, which is used in our time to insulate the loggia and other objects, has the most dense structure without micropores, and therefore its compressive strength is extremely high.
In addition, the polymer is frost-resistant, neutral in relation to chemicals, biological effects (not subject to destruction by fungi and rodents).
Due to its high performance properties, polystyrene provides not only good thermal insulation, but also protects surfaces from moisture and prevents the penetration of extraneous sounds.
Areas of use
There are a lot of areas of application of modern polystyrene material today. Polystyrene insulation is a universal process, because you can work with the material in any weather and even in frost.
Due to its technical qualities, polystyrene will be indispensable when performing the following works:
- Thermal insulation of various types of roofs and ceilings;
- floors of buildings (while country houses are not the only option);
- Wall insulation with polystyrene outside and inside the house;
- Effective thermal insulation of floors in buildings and structures of various types and sizes;
- and balconies. Similar to wall insulation, the process can be carried out both outside and inside the house.
Council. Polystyrene is a high-quality and practical material, but at the same time, certain requirements must be observed during its installation.
In particular, do not allow gasoline and other solvents to get on the surface of the insulation, as this can lead to the destruction of polystyrene.
Benefits of using polystyrene as insulation
Performing thermal insulation works using modern polystyrene material is an excellent solution for any building, both one- and multi-storey.
Along with its practicality, the insulation has a lot of unique technological characteristics, among which are:
- High performance of thermal insulation... Thermal conductivity of polystyrene fluctuates in the range of 0.037-0.043 W / mK, which is much better than the indicators of the same wood, brick and other building materials.
To insulate the same facade, only 12 cm of polymer insulation is enough, instead of 45 cm of wood or 2 meters of 10 cm of brickwork; - Wide temperature range... Polystyrene retains its properties at temperatures from + 80C to -180C, which allows it to be used in any climatic zone;
- Ease of installation... or other surfaces, you can even do it yourself. This does not require the use of any complex tools or expensive materials;
Council. On the domestic market, you can find polystyrene sheets with a thickness of 20-100 mm.
As a result, for each individual case, you can effectively select the most optimal option, which allows you to quickly and easily insulate any object.
- Efficiency and durability of the insulation system... The instruction for polystyrene says that it is resistant to wear, retains its size, shape and properties for a long time.
According to the opinion of experts and manufacturers, confirmed by practical observations, in the construction of a house, a polystyrene insulation system can last about 30 years, effectively fulfilling its purpose; - The flash point of polystyrene is much higher than that of other materials... Processed with fire retardants, the material does not lend itself to combustion at all.
As a result, the scope of application of polystyrene thermal insulation is significantly expanding, up to industries with hazardous conditions.
Protective materials based on polystyrene effectively protect against fire and those surfaces that are near the flame;
- Resistant to moisture absorption... Polystyrene is a unique material that does not dissolve, does not absorb moisture and does not deform.
It should be noted that due to such water resistance, the heat insulator can be used in any conditions. The only caveat is that a special coating must be applied to the surface of the insulation, which will reduce the rate of moisture penetration inside; - Sound absorption and high level of sound insulation... Polystyrene is a porous material, and therefore perfectly retains air and does not let extraneous sounds into an isolated room. Moreover, the greater the thickness of the slab, the higher the sound insulation performance;
- Sustainability... This is a material that is absolutely safe for human health and the environment. It is not poisonous, does not emit any harmful chemicals and allergens, allows the walls to "breathe";
- Profitability... The initial price of polystyrene is much lower than that of other thermal insulation materials. In addition, the material costs for insulating structures are relatively low, and therefore the total cost of work is significantly reduced.
Output
The use of extruded polystyrene for insulating houses and other buildings is the best option of all. Such an affordable and high-quality heat insulator guarantees high levels of comfort and coziness in the house, protects the building from moisture ingress, and significantly saves money on heating.
Currently, the choice of polystyrene in the domestic market is simply huge. Many companies offer materials with unique characteristics and at various prices, which opens up wide opportunities for consumers. In the video presented in this article, you will find additional information on this topic.
September 6, 2016Specialization: Capital construction works (foundation laying, wall construction, roof construction, etc.). Internal construction work (laying of internal communications, rough and final finishing). Hobbies: mobile communications, high technology, computer technology, programming.
It is unlikely that I will be able to count how many times I have performed polystyrene insulation of walls, floors, ceilings, partitions and other structures. This material has an optimal price-quality ratio and therefore is very popular among those who like to work with their own hands.
Today I want to talk about the existing types and characteristics of expanded polystyrene, so that you can choose and use this particular material correctly, and not mineral wool, for example, which, although it has excellent properties, is not cheap!
Basic concepts
Expanded polystyrene is a porous material consisting of gas-filled cells, the walls of which are made of polystyrene and styrene polymers. The granules of the latter dissolve in the original polymer mass and mix with gas. In the process of subsequent heating with steam, the granules of the substance greatly increase in size, filling the installed mold.
For the manufacture of traditional polystyrene foam, natural gas is used, and varieties with fire-fighting properties are produced with the participation of carbon dioxide.
Styrofoam is often called polystyrene foam. However, this is not entirely true. Foams in the direct sense of this term also include porous materials, production based on polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene.
After foaming, the material acquires a structure consisting of thin-walled individual cells glued together. The cells are practically sealed, but inside them there are micropores, and in the space between the granules there are microscopic voids, the number and size of which depends on the density. Consequently, the physical and mechanical parameters of the product change.
But before talking about them, I would like to dwell on the description of the types of expanded polystyrene that are used in modern construction.
Varieties of construction polystyrene foam
Here I will describe only those types that are used to a greater or lesser extent for insulation. But I must say right away that this unique material is used for other purposes as well.
So, a little schematic:
Now about each variety in more detail:
- Block expanded polystyrene (with fire-fighting properties). Usually it is marked with the letters PSB-S, followed by a number indicating the density of the plates. It is this material that builders call "foam". Differs in the highest thermal insulation properties, however, it has several disadvantages, due to which some experts prefer more technological mineral wool.
- This technology of simultaneous construction of buildings and their thermal insulation has been known for about 40 years. More than a hundred different building systems are currently in use based on this principle. In my practice, I have used two different methods:
- reinforcement of expanded polystyrene plates with concrete mortar - in this case, the insulation is placed inside the wall, and concrete with a mineral filler is applied outside;
- pouring concrete into polystyrene foam shells - a single structure is laid out of blocks (like from a children's designer), after which a reinforcing grid is constructed inside, which is poured with concrete, ending up between two layers of insulation.
- Extruded polystyrene foam.Plays three roles at once: insulation, noise and waterproofing. It differs from block polystyrene foam by almost zero number of capillaries between the cells and the minimum coefficient of water absorption.
Hence the peculiarities: extruded polystyrene foam is often used to insulate the foundation from the outside, since, among other things, it is able to withstand significant external loads. Moreover, the instructions for its installation do not require the subsequent application of cement plaster.
- Polystyrene concrete.A type of concrete solution, in which individual expanded polystyrene granules are used as filler. The material has sufficient strength, tolerates freezing and thawing cycles well, does not enter into chemical reactions with other substances, has a low density and coefficient of thermal conductivity.
It is used for casting into formwork or making wall blocks for the construction of buildings. Unlike other types, it belongs to the class of low-combustible materials, category G1.
- Non-contact facade systems. This term refers to polystyrene foam boards and other materials (mesh, dowels, cement mortar) used in the complex for thermal insulation of facades using "wet" technology. They differ in lower cost, since the price of all materials included in the system is lower than that of ventilated structures.
- Inlays for finished building parts. Very often, expanded polystyrene is used to insulate finished structures used in construction. For example, multilayer walls made of reinforced concrete or metal profiles, plastic windows, and so on.
The most popular in individual construction is block polystyrene foam, used as an independent thermal insulation for walls. Therefore, I will talk about its characteristics below.
Technical characteristics of polystyrene foam
I do not want to talk about the pros and cons of the material, since the characteristics of the material can be considered in two ways. I will just list and describe them, and you have the right to evaluate from your own point of view that it is better to use expanded polystyrene or mineral wool!
Reason 1 - thermal conductivity
The described heat-insulating material, made by foaming the original polystyrene, consists of 98% of the gas filling it, which is known to conduct heat very poorly. This happens because the air or carbon dioxide inside is not exposed to convection (there is no movement).
When compared with mineral wool, which is widespread in private construction, then expanded polystyrene has a lower thermal conductivity coefficient. Depending on the density, it takes a value from 0.028 to 0.034 W / (m * K). Extruded polystyrene foam, as the most dense, has a thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.03.
The material retains the above-mentioned characteristics at an ambient temperature of -50 to + 75 degrees Celsius.
Reason 2 - strength
I can tell right away that expanded polystyrene produced by extrusion is more durable than its classic counterpart. And all because as a result of its processing, bonds between molecules are strengthened. The static bending strength of EPS is in the range of 0.4-1 kg per cm2, while the strength of ordinary expanded polystyrene is 0.02 -0.2.
However, strength directly depends on density, and the latter affects thermal conductivity. Therefore, in construction, depending on the tasks facing the specialist, either strong, but less warm foam plastics are used, or vice versa.
Reason 3- chemical resistance
Polystyrene, from which expanded polystyrene is made, perfectly tolerates the effects of such substances:
- soda;
- soap solutions;
- mineral agricultural fertilizers;
- bitumen and building materials containing it;
- cement and gypsum, as well as solutions containing these binders;
- lime and solutions with it;
- asphalt emulsions.
However, the described insulation loses its integrity and operational properties upon contact with acetone, turpentine, many varnishes and drying oils, alcohols and substances obtained by distillation of oil.
But the most important thing, from my point of view, is the poor tolerance of direct ultraviolet rays.... Regardless of the type of polystyrene foam and how it is used, it is necessary to protect the heat insulator layer from the sun's rays with a finish.
Otherwise, irradiation will make the polystyrene foam loose, and rain, snow or wind acting on it will complete the destruction of the outer thermal insulation layer.
Reason 4 - sound absorption
Classic expanded polystyrene alone is not used as a soundproofing material. The fact is that it is able to neutralize only impact noise, and sound waves propagated through the air are not absorbed by it.
This feature of the insulation is connected with the fact that the air inside the rigidly fixed cells is isolated from the external environment. Therefore, if you are going to equip yourself with a very quiet shelter from street noise, you must combine expanded polystyrene with other materials. However, if you do not live near the railway, then this indicator should not become a reason for rejecting expanded polystyrene!
Reason 5 - water absorption and vapor permeability
Classic block foam stops air infiltration through the building envelope. Extruded polystyrene foam is produced using a slightly different technology, therefore the vapor permeability coefficient of this material is 0.019-0.015 kg / (m * h * Pa). This is due to the fact that the extrusion plates are formed by cutting, and steam penetrates through the material just through these cuts.
The exact opposite situation is with water absorption. Heat-insulating block foam with direct long-term contact with water absorbs an average of 4% of liquid from its own volume. As for extruded, it absorbs no more than 0.4%, that is, exactly 10 times less.
Reason 6 - antiseptic
Tests carried out by leading laboratories in Europe and the New World show that no microorganisms can multiply on the surface of expanded polystyrene - conventional and extruded. The designed insulating layer does not require special treatment with fungicides either during installation or during use.
However, there is one caveat here. The fact is that for some reason mice are very fond of foam plastic. And not to eat, but to make holes in it and equip nests. This should be taken into account when choosing a method of insulation and finishing of the heat-insulating layer.
Reason 7 - sustainability
I'll start with the production technology. Modern factories for the production of insulation do not use freon gas, which is dangerous for the ozone layer of the planet. Therefore, the production process itself is completely safe for the environment.
However, if used improperly, the material can oxidize. Moreover, the extrusion does it more slowly than the block one. For this process to be activated, a not very high temperature is required. It is enough for the air to warm up to 30 degrees Celsius above zero in summer.
The oxidation process is accompanied by the emission of a large amount of harmful substances:
- ethylbenzene;
- formaldehyde;
- toluene;
- acetonephenone;
- methyl alcohol.
Polystyrene foam is especially dangerous when heated above 80 degrees. In this case, phosgene, hydrocyanic acid and hydrobromide are formed with the smoke, which are extremely poisonous.
Reason 8 - fire safety
Expanded polystyrene is a highly flammable material. According to the current building codes, it is classified in the G3 and G4 categories, that is, the most flammable.
Some manufacturers try to challenge this fact, saying that wood, which is widely used for the construction of houses, is even more combustible. However, it is not about the ability to ignite, but about the possibility of stopping the further spread of the fire and reducing the toxicity of the smoke emitted during combustion.
As an experiment, you can put a piece of wood and a sheet of foam plastic next to it, and then briefly act on them with a burner. Even if the tree ignites, it will go out in the absence of external factors, and the heat insulator plate will completely burn out, emitting black acrid smoke.
The situation is ambiguous with heaters containing flame retardants. The smoke production coefficient of classic expanded polystyrene is 1048 m2 per kilogram. And for a material with a self-extinguishing effect, it is already 1219 m2.
For comparison, I will give the figures for rubber - 85 m2 and wood - 23 m2. So that you understand, when a room is smoky over 500 m2, a person cannot make out the fingers on a straight arm.
Once again, I note that expanded polystyrene with a fire retardant also quickly ignites, but acquires the ability to self-extinguish. Moreover, the longer the service life of the insulating layer, the less fire retardant remains in it.
Reason 9 - service life
Correctly installed polystyrene foam insulation layer retains its operational properties for at least 30 years. But only if it is protected with cement plaster or hinged decorative material.
Here the thickness for the walls outside and inside is very important. If there is not enough insulation, the house will not be energy efficient. But a layer that is too thick can warp and become unusable.
Spheres of application of expanded polystyrene
As you understand, it is impossible to say which polystyrene foam is better to use for home insulation. It all depends on the scope of its application.
Walls
Expanded polystyrene is very widely used for wall insulation from the inside and outside. I always lean towards the latest technology, since in this case it becomes possible to shift the freezing point of the enclosing structures as far as possible from the living space.
If the insulation is installed outside, the wall of mineral blocks or wood accumulates thermal energy from the heating devices in the room. And with a short-term decrease in the outdoor air temperature, it is able to give off heat, maintaining a comfortable microclimate in the room without using the heating system.
When the heat-insulating layer of expanded polystyrene is placed inside the room, the point of moisture condensation shifts between the insulation and the enclosing structure. As a result, moisture accumulating there promotes the development of mold and mildew, and in severe frost it freezes, disrupting heat exchange.
Most often I use expanded polystyrene as insulation for a “wet” facade, protecting its surface with a layer of cement plaster. As a result, the thermal insulation material acquires increased strength and increases its service life.
Floor
Another insulating technology is no less popular - floors and interfloor floors. Expanded polystyrene helps not only reduce unproductive heat loss, but also performs other functions:
- heating system substrate;
- a soundproofing layer that reduces noise from walking and moving furniture.
As in other cases, thickness is very important here - for the floor, I recommend using 50mm slabs. Moreover, it is better to do this with extruded polystyrene foam: floor insulation will be more reliable and durable. Especially if you pour such a layer on top with a screed over the beacons. By the way, I talked about a similar solution to the issue in one of my articles on this blog.
Roof
Expanded polystyrene, with some reservations, is suitable for insulating roofs and attics due to its low weight and low price.
If we talk about roofs, then it is used in two ways:
- Non-ventilated flat roof. In this case, the entire surface is covered with dense plates of insulation, which is protected from above with waterproofing mastics or membranes.
- Ventilated pitched roof (and attic). The material is installed in the rafter gaps. The layer will be protected from above by roofing material, and from the inside by decorative cladding.
The disadvantage of this method is the high flammability of the insulation. In case of fire, evacuation of people from the attic floor will be difficult due to smoke.
Foundation
Special requirements are imposed on thermal insulation materials for these structures, since they must withstand significant external influences from the surrounding soil, groundwater, and so on.
In this case, the thickness is not so important - for the foundation it is better to pay attention to the strength. Therefore, use not classic, but extruded polystyrene foam. From above, the material is protected by masonry, waterproofing membranes or cement plaster.
Engineering systems
Recently, expanded polystyrene has begun to be used for thermal insulation of pipelines. For this, not ordinary sheet material is suitable, but products made in the form of hollow shells, which are put on the parts to be insulated and fixed with adhesive tape.
The material can be used alone or complete with a heating cable, which is installed on the pipe surface under a layer of polystyrene foam.
Expanded polystyrene Technonikol
Polystyrene foam insulation produced by TechnoNICOL is very popular among domestic builders. The assortment of this company includes various product names, each of which has its own scope.
To help you deal with them, I have compiled a small table.
| Name | Properties |
| Technoplex | Extruded polystyrene foam, which is specially designed for the insulation of apartments in apartment buildings and the arrangement of warm floors. This material can be used to insulate balconies and internal partitions. In the production of expanded polystyrene, nanographite is used, which reduces the thermal conductivity of the material and gives the plates a specific silver color. |
| Carbon Eco | Expanded polystyrene, which is used in the construction of private houses and low-rise apartment buildings. Suitable for insulation of foundations, floors, roofs and facades. In the manufacture of the material, nanocarbon is used, which improves the energy efficiency of the plates. |
| Carbon Eco SP | Specialized insulating material that is used in the construction of building foundations using the "Swedish plate" method directly on the ground, without basement and basement rooms. It is often used to build houses on sandy, clayey and water-saturated soils. |
| Carbon Eco Fas | Specialized material with milled step edges for tighter joining of boards to each other. It is used for insulating facades and surfaces of basement floors, followed by decoration with thin-layer cement plaster. |
| Carbon eco drain | Expanded polystyrene boards with a grooved surface for arranging drainage around the walls of the house and for thermal insulation of the foundation. Also used in flat roofs to provide more efficient water removal and micro-ventilation of the under-roof space. |
| Carbon Prof | Effective insulation for commercial buildings. It is used for thermal insulation of building foundations, roofs, including operated ones, floors, facades and plinths. Due to its increased strength, it is able to withstand significant external mechanical loads. |
| Carbon Prof Slope | Expanded polystyrene for the construction and insulation of flat roofs, followed by waterproofing with fused membranes or bituminous mastics. One of the surfaces of the material has a slope (of different size), which facilitates the removal of water from the roofing material, eliminating the formation of areas of stagnant water. |
| Carbon solid | Expanded polystyrene with extremely high compressive strength (about 1000 kPa), used for thermal insulation of floors with intensive use, insulation of railways and highways, airfields and spaceports. In addition to strength, this insulation perfectly tolerates the effects of moisture, chemicals and resists biocorrosion. |
| Carbon sand mon | A highly specialized thermal insulation material used as a core when pouring ready-made reinforced concrete panels used for high-rise construction. The material has a special structure that allows you to avoid the effect of "through transmission" and reduce the consumption of glue for gluing parts. |
| Carbon Sand PVC | Professional insulation used for thermal insulation of finished structures made of polyvinyl chloride. For example, insulated window blocks or wall sandwich panels. |
Summary
Now you are familiar with all the necessary information regarding the concept, types and methods of using expanded polystyrene. If you are interested in the insulation process itself, you can watch the video in this article, which describes the technology - insulation of the facade with expanded polystyrene.
You can leave your opinion on the information contained in the material in the comments.
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