DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTIES

It is produced by expanding styrene beads using pentane gas, a hydrocarbon that contributes to localized smog production.

It is made from fossil fuel and pentane.

Great impact on the environment from the extraction of petroleum, via the refining process, up to and during the processing of waste.

Long life expectancy, low maintenance.

High embodied energy.

Polystyrene insulation can be produced with a minimum of 50% recycled polystyrene content, any polystyrene can be recycled into building insulation.

 PROS

It is the only rigid foam insulation made with neither CFCs nor HCFCs, it has one environmental drawback: pentane emission during manufacturing.New plants are reducing this emission.

EPS can be recycled for manufacturing into new styrene products.

 CONS

It required more energy for the production process than mineral wool.

The pentane emissions contribute to smog.

Fire retardant can reduce recycle opportunity.

Very high embodied energy.

 RECOMMENDED USES

Avoid the use of bitumen as a means of fixing.