EPS advantages

• Thermal Insulation
• Shock Absorption
• Durability
• Moisture Resistance
• Light Weight
• Safety
• Ease of Use
• Chemical Resistance
• Proven Experience

Thermal Insulation

EPS has exceptional insulation properties, with a thermal resistance (R value) of 1.31 per 50mm of thickness for S class material, as defined by AS 1366 part 3: 1992. This makes it ideal for wall and underfloor insulation and external cladding of buildings. Because of its cellular structure EPS is dimensionally stable, and will not settle over time. EPS used and installed correctly does not deteriorate with age and as such is able to deliver constant R values for the life of the building.

Durability

EPS is an inert, organic material, and therefore will not rot and is highly resistant to mildew. It provides no nutritive value to plants, animals, micro organisms or rodents. EPS will last the life of most buildings in which it is used, provided it does not suffer physical damage.

Moisture Resistance

EPS is a closed cell material and does not readily absorb water, unless subjected to prolonged saturation. Even in this situation it maintains its shape, size, structure, physical appearance and approximately 85% of its insulation value. The ability of EPS to resist moisture is exemplified by its widespread use in fishing floats and marinas, involving exposure to water for prolonged periods of time.

Light Weight

EPS is an extremely light weight material. Typically weighing between 12 and 30 kg per cubic meter, EPS has many advantages over other materials. In building situations, this lightweight characteristic is a major advantage in providing structural design economies. Additionally, when shaped to provide intricate architectural features, it allows architects the freedom to create historical, innovative and economic enhancements to buildings while still meeting strength and earthquake codes.

Safety

EPS is environmentally friendly, containing no CFCs or HCFCs, it is inert, safe and requires much less energy to produce than many other materials. In applications where fire resistance is necessary or desirable, such as building products, EPS is supplied containing a flame retardant which in normal use prevents ignition of the EPS if exposed to a flame. In a fire situation EPS generates less heat and smoke than most timbers and wood based products.

Ease of Use

EPS is supplied either moulded to the exact shape required for its use, or can be easily cut and shaped when required to suit any application. Its light weight makes handling easy and safe. EPS does not irritate the skin and is non allergenic.

Chemical Resistance

EPS is resistant to almost all aqueous media including dilute acids and alkalis, methanol, ethanol and silicone oils.

Proven Experience

EPS has been used throughout the world for over 40 years in an extremely wide range of applications. Experience has proven that EPS performance can be reliably predicted wherever it is used. Manufacturers have developed and refined processes so products are consistent and of a high quality. Regulatory authorities are familiar with EPS and generally well aware of its excellent properties. EPS is widely respected throughout the world as a versatile, efficient material which plays an important part in our everyday life.