Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, versatile material widely used in building for its excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties. Common applications include insulation for walls, roofs, and floors, as well as use in structural components like insulated concrete forms (ICFs) and structural insulated panels (SIPs). Its properties, such as being moisture-resistant, durable, and easy to cut, make it suitable for both new construction and retrofitting existing buildings to improve energy efficiency and lower heating costs.
Applications in building and construction
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Insulation:EPS is used for thermal and sound insulation in various parts of a building, including:
- Roof and attic insulation
- Cavity wall insulation (using loose-fill beads)
- Floor insulation
- Exterior wall insulation
- Facade systems
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Structural components:EPS can be integrated into structural systems, such as:
- Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs): Hollow blocks of EPS that are stacked and filled with concrete, creating a strong, insulated wall system.
- Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs): Panels that consist of an insulating foam core sandwiched between two structural facings, used for walls, floors, and roofs.
