Products

Molded Polystyrenes (EPS)

Manufacturing Process:

The use of EPS began in the 1950's. Polystyrene resins are steam heated, expanding the resins to beads which are about 1/8” in size. After curing, the beads are placed in a mold and steam heated again. At this stage, the beads are now fused together in a billet or bun. They are then cut to the width and thickness needed. It is the dead air space between each bead that gives EPS its higher insulation properties.

Water Permeability and Moisture Absorption:

The average perm rating is 1.5 to 3 perms-inch with a water absorption of 2% by weight.

Fire Resistance:

There are several grades of EPS available. These are modified and standard products. The modified grades contain a fire retardant. All EPS products are organic and are considered combustible.

Content and Shipping:

EPS is bulky and requires large shipping expense. There is very little packaging.

Selections:

EPS comes in 4'X8' sheets in 1/2” thickness.

Application:

Most current EPS usage is in the production of Structural Insulated Panes.

Extruded Polystyrenes

Manufacturing Process:

Extruded Polystyrene is often called Styrofoam or blue board. It is made differently than EPS polystyrene. Extruded Polystyrene is manufactured by flowing a heated mixture of polymers through a shaped opening to form a continuous board. Blowing agents within the material cause it to expand as it leaves the opening. The result is a very fine celled structure insulation with a higher resistance to water.

Water Permeability and Moisture absorption:

Extruded polystyrene has a perm rating of .4 to .9 per inch. Water absorption is 1%.

Fire Resistance:

Extruded polystyrene contains a flame retardant. All Polystyrene products are organic and are considered combustible.

Content and Shipping:

All polystyrenes are bulky, requiring large shipping expenses. There is very little packaging.

Selections:

All polystyrenes come in 4'X8' sheets in 1/2” thickness.

Application:

This product is mainly used for under slab insulation, foundation, masonry walls and roofing applications.