Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a synthetic insulation material composed of 98% air and 2% plastic. It is used for thermal and acoustic insulation of buildings, vehicles and other structures.
Benefits
- High thermal performance: EPS is a high-performance insulator, with a thermal conductivity of between 0.029 and 0.038 W/m.K. It therefore reduces heat loss and improves thermal comfort in buildings.
- Affordable: EPS is a relatively inexpensive material, making it an attractive insulation solution for those on a tight budget.
- Easy to install: EPS is lightweight and easy to handle. It can be installed by a professional or an experienced DIYer.
- Water and moisture resistance: EPS is waterproof and moisture-resistant. This makes it ideal for insulating surfaces exposed to the elements.
Disadvantages
- Flammability: EPS is a flammable material. So it’s important to protect it from sources of fire.
- Susceptible to rodents: EPS is an attractive material for rodents, which can gnaw and destroy it.
- Average acoustic performance: EPS is a good thermal insulator, but its acoustic performance is average. It is therefore necessary to combine it with other materials to improve a building’s sound insulation.
- Environmental impact: EPS production requires the use of non-renewable resources and generates waste.
Conclusion
EPS is a high-performance, affordable insulation material. It does, however, have certain drawbacks, such as its susceptibility to rodents and its environmental impact. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before choosing this type of insulation.
Alternatives
Other insulating materials offer similar advantages to EPS, but are less flammable and more resistant to rodents. These materials include :
- Extruded polystyrene (XPS)
- Rock wool
- Glass wool
- Cellulose wadding
The choice of the best insulating material depends on the nature of the job and the customer’s needs.
polystyrene foam and the environment
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a synthetic insulation material composed of 98% air and 2% plastic. It is used for thermal and acoustic insulation of buildings, vehicles and other structures.
EPS has a negative environmental impact, not least because of its production and recycling.
Production
The production of EPS requires the use of non-renewable resources such as oil and natural gas. It also generates greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change.
Recycling
EPS is a recyclable material, but recycling it is complex and costly. It is therefore often landfilled, where it can accumulate and pollute the environment.
Environmental impact
The main environmental impacts of PES are as follows:
- Consumption of non-renewable resources: EPS production requires the use of oil and natural gas, which are non-renewable resources.
- Greenhouse gas emissions: EPS production generates greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change.
- Soil and water pollution: landfilled EPS can accumulate and pollute soil and water.
Alternatives
There are alternatives to EPS, which have a lower environmental impact. These alternatives include :
- Extruded polystyrene (XPS)
- Rock wool
- Glass wool
- Cellulose wadding
These materials are generally more expensive than EPS, but offer significant environmental benefits.
Conclusion
EPS is a high-performance insulating material, but it has a negative environmental impact. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before choosing this type of insulation.