Against the background of constantly growing electricity and heating bills, the issues of thermal insulation of buildings, premises and communications are becoming more and more relevant. The most popular material in industrial and private construction is extruded polystyrene foam. The products are distinguished by excellent technical characteristics and a wide range of applications. There are models on sale that have different configurations, markings and prices. In order not to get confused in this variety and choose the right product, you should study all the features of extruded polystyrene, from the stage of its manufacture to finishing options after application to the base.
Production technology and composition
Extruded polystyrene is produced by foaming heated polymer raw materials with subsequent extrusion and cooling. The initial raw material is polystyrene plastic granules, the particles of which, under the influence of a solvent and a carbon catalyst, increase in volume, forming a foamy substance. In the process of cooling, the mass becomes denser and more viscous. At this point, it enters the extruder. During the passage through the molds, the material finally cools down and takes on its final shape. Then it is cut into specified shapes, packed and transported to the finished product warehouse.
In finished form, extruded polystyrene is 99% air. The rest of the volume is occupied by the walls of the capsules, inside which it is enclosed. Unlike foam, extruded polystyrene foam is a monolithic material with closed-type inner cells of 0.1-0.2 mm in size. Thanks to this composition, a number of insulating characteristics are achieved that are not possessed by similar materials with a different composition.
Insulation marking
Domestic manufacturers produce extruded PPS insulation that meets international quality standards. Some of the products are exported to neighboring countries. Based on this, the classification adopted in Europe is used for product labeling.
The material is indicated by the following symbols:
- XPS - extruded polystyrene foam;
- EN - European standard;
- T is the accuracy of geometric parameters in mm;
- 25-45 - density in kg / m3;
- CS is the compressive strength of the foam;
- DS (TH) - thermal expansion index in%;
- TR is the tensile strength.
Manufacturers Carbon, Prof, Xps and Technonikol mark their products with signs indicating additional EPG characteristics:
- 35 - type;
- G — corrugated surface;
- S - edge of the selected quarter;
- N — edge thorn — groove;
- 50 - thickness in mm.
The marking is applied to the packaging, some manufacturers make it on the material using an automated laser printer. This approach makes it easier to monitor the performance of work by hired workers.
Release form
Plasticizers are added to the EPP insulation, due to which the material acquires various properties. They are in demand in various sectors of construction activities, allowing you to solve the most complex engineering problems.
The consumer can purchase material of this form:
- Extrusion polystyrene foam plates. The products are produced in square and rectangular formats. The thickness of the sheets is 25-150 mm.Standard dimensions of slabs are 600x1200 mm, 600x1250 mm, 600x2400 mm. In the insulation of the walls of private buildings, the most popular layers are 50x100x100 cm with a selected edge. Plates are used for thermal insulation of objects with a smooth and durable outer surface. The scope of use extends to interior and exterior decoration.
- Substrates. The material plays an important role in the insulation of the floor covering, in the sound insulation of premises and their protection from moisture. The substrate is produced in the form of slabs and rolls with a width of 50 cm to 100 cm. Some brands have an accordion configuration, which, when unfolded, forms a monolithic surface without cracks and joints. The density of the flooring is high enough not to bend under vertical loads. At the same time, the material has elasticity and flexibility, which helps to compensate for small defects in the base. The grooved top provides free air circulation, prevents the accumulation of moisture, the formation of mold and mildew.
- Decorative items. The dense and lightweight material has found application in the manufacture of products used for finishing and decorative finishing of facades of houses, residential and office premises, baguettes, platbands, ceiling and corner skirting boards are made of PPP. After mounting on the surface, the polystyrene is coated with oil, acrylic or water-based paint.
Such widespread use of the material is justified by its unique properties.
Characteristics of expanded polystyrene
Extruded polystyrene foam has the following technical characteristics:
- working temperature - from -70 to +100 degrees;
- thermal conductivity - 0.2776-0.0320 W / mS;
- compression density - 100-150x1000 KPa;
- vapor permeability - 0.009-0.013 Mg;
- flammability class - G3-G4;
- moisture absorption - 0.2–0.4%;
- density - 25-45 kg / m3;
- melting temperature - 150-180 degrees.
Indicators differ depending on the brand of products, the manufacturer and the purpose of the material. The color, depending on the properties, is gray, blue and green.
Advantages and disadvantages
Thanks to a well-thought-out chemical composition, the decision to foam the mass and the extrusion used at the final stage of manufacturing, polyurethane insulation has acquired many useful characteristics in the field of repair and construction.
Plates and rolls have the following advantages:
- Environmental Safety. Under normal operating conditions, the insulation itself does not emit substances harmful to humans into the environment.
- Low thermal conductivity. This indicator is the best among the existing analogues. Only sprayed polyurethane foam, which has a high price and complexity in application, can be compared with it.
- Waterproof. Even in damp ground, a good insulator reliably protects the object from dampness.
- Strength. The material is tough, it withstands high pressure, retains its shape, does not break when dropped. At the same time, it is able to shrink, adjusting to the unevenness of the surface.
- Ease of installation. To install any of the types of EPSS insulation, a standard set of household tools and initial skills in handling them are enough.
- Durability. The design life is 50 years. However, the first samples, made 70 years ago, practically did not undergo any changes.
- Resistant to mold and mildew. The material repels insects, birds and rodents.
- Low specific gravity. There is no additional load on the supporting structures and the need to strengthen the foundation.
- Affordable cost. People with limited funds can afford to buy such material.
Polystyrene also has weaknesses. It degrades when exposed to ultraviolet radiation and contact with acetone-based adhesives.
When heated above 80 degrees, the polymer begins to release harmful substances.The plastic is flammable; ignition is accompanied by the formation of thick toxic smoke. It is better to use it as a heater outside buildings.
Applications
Due to its many advantages, extrusion polyethylene can be used in different climatic conditions.
The material is used in such areas of construction activities:
- Insulation of residential buildings and engineering structures. It is used for arranging the foundation, blind area, floor, walls, ceilings, mansard and attic coverings.
- Thermal insulation of external and underground utilities. EPP is excellent for cold protection of plumbing, sewerage and heating systems.
- Preparatory work in the arrangement of roads, squares and runways.
- Decoration of buildings and structures. Polymer products are used for finishing work in the repair and installation of interior decoration, suspended and tension structures, decoration of window and door openings.
- Internal filling of cooling equipment. Foam material is in demand for the manufacture of refrigerators, refrigerators, freezers and chambers. On an industrial scale, the polymer is used for thermal insulation of warehouses and storage facilities.
In comparison with analogues, according to the criterion of price and quality, PPP is considered the best universal insulation.
Installation methods
There are the following methods of mounting extruded polystyrene foam:
- Plastering. It is used in outdoor work when arranging facades. The essence of the method is that the plates are first glued and then nailed to the base. Then the surface is reinforced with a plastic mesh, plastered, covered with paint, varnish or other protective coating.
- Wireframe. Used in the repair of floors and ceilings. Plates are laid in a frame made of boards, the cracks are sealed with polyurethane foam. On top of the lathing, a finishing coating is laid in the form of boards or panels.
- Intermediate layer. Roll or slab material is laid on a concrete slab or sub-floor made of thick boards. In this case, the interlayer is glued to the base in order to avoid shifting during installation.
When located underground, the material does not need additional protection, if there is no risk of mechanical impact. When carrying out outdoor work, protection from ultraviolet radiation and shock is required.
