FAQ

FAQ

In General, insulation materials quality depends on physical and mechanical properties of the material, STYRO EPS is always meeting and exceeding all the requirements of insulation properties such as thermal conductivity (Lambda value (λ) or K value), long term thermal resistance value (R value), compressive strength, water absorption, fire-properties, flexural strength, dimensional stability etc.

Yes, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will cause slight discoloration and forms yellowish skin on top of STYRO EPS insulation, this occurs due to UV rays effects on sunlight which is named as Ultraviolet degradation. STYRO EPS should be protected with a light-colored opaque LDPE film or Tarpaulin sheets in case if it is stored under direct sun light.

Yes, petroleum-based solvents or its vapors can harm STYRO EPS, care should be taken to protect STYRO EPS from those solvents or their vapors. (pls. refer do’s & don’t page for more details)

Permeability is the water vapor transmission of a homogeneous material under unit vapor pressure difference between two specific surfaces, per unit thickness. Permeability is important for specifying insulation materials.  Permeance is the water vapor transmission of a specific sample under unit vapor pressure difference between two specific surfaces.

The amount of water vapor passing through a given area of a plastic sheet or film in a given time, when the sheet or film is maintained at a constant temperature and when its faces are exposed to certain different relative humidity. The result is usually expressed as grams per 24 hours per square meter.

Perm inch is a traditional unit of water vapor permeance. The perm value does not depend on the thickness of the material used as a water barrier. The permeance is the product of the perm value and the thickness, measured in inches.

Perm is a traditional unit of water vapor permeability, that is the ability of a material to permit the passage of water vapor. If we want to keep things dry, we wrap them in something having low permeability. A material has a permeability of one perm if it allows transmission of one grain of water vapor per square foot of area per inch of mercury (in Hg) of pressure difference per hour.

Yes, EPS has long term “R” VALUE. thermal resistance (R-value) of EPS doesn’t deteriorate due to age since each cell of EPS comprises of natural air not having any injected GAS. As a result, the thermal resistance stays consistently constant throughout the age of the material (R-value).

R-Value (thermal resistance) indicates the insulating power of an insulation material. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power i.e. more energy savings. The thermal resistance (R value) of a specific product can be found by dividing its thickness by the K value.

R value: Thickness / K value = Unit M2 k/w

Yes, STYRO EPS is 100 % recyclable. After its successful accomplishment of original intended life, EPS could be recycled into a variety of consumer products. Many EPS converters have been reprocessing their own in-plant off-cuts, scrap for many years. As a part of social corporate responsibility STYRO offers post-consumer waste collection & recycling to all its valued customer.

Absolutely no, from the day one EPS is Manufactured with Eco-friendly Pentane gas as blowing agent. EPS is 100 % CFC, HCFC or its fiber free material. EPS does not contain any ozone depleting Chlorofluorocarbons or Hydro Chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). Therefore, It’s Ozone Depletion Potential Zero (ODP=0).   Since it has zero ODP it falls under Low GWP category. (Global Warming Potential). 

  • EPS is a good example of the efficient use of natural resources – it is 98% air.
  • The manufacture and use of EPS do not generate any risk to health or to the environment.
  • EPS does not damage the ozone layer since it does not use CFCs or HCFCs in the manufacturing process. EPS is 100 % CFC, HCFC free material.
  • The transformation process consumes little energy and does not generate waste.
  • The use of EPS for thermal insulation in the construction industry contributes significant savings on heating and cooling buildings and a drastic reduction in the emission of polluting gases Co2, Co3.
  • EPS packaging protects products, helping to reduce wastage and its lightweight nature helps to reduce fuel consumption.
  • Non FR grade EPS can come directly into contact with foodstuffs as it meets all the prevailing international health regulations.
  • It is chemically Inert, fungi and bacteria cannot easily grow on EPS.
  • EPS makes up only a tiny part of municipal solid waste (0.1%).
  • EPS is 100 % recyclable.
  • As it does not biodegrade EPS does not contaminate the air or water with gases or any soluble substances.
  • Ozone Depletion Potential Zero (ODP=0).
  • Low GWP (Global Warming Potential) thus environment friendly.

Like many other construction materials, non-flame retardant STYRO EPS is combustible. It should not be left to expose flame or other ignition sources. STYRO EPS insulation should be encapsulated with a thermal barrier or otherwise installed in accordance with applicable building code requirements. (pls. refer fire page for more details)

Yes, EPS used in Civil and Construction industry is 100 % fire-retardant, self- extinguish, flame proof material. All EPS products which is used in the construction industry are complying following fire properties:

  • Oxygen Index (OI) by 24 % of its total volume minimum.
  • Smoke development index (SDI):200 as per ASTM E84.
  • Flame Spread Index (FSI):  10 (Class A) As per ASTM E84.

As per ASTM E84 standards fire properties of building material are categorized based on smoke development, fire spread properties of that particular material. EPS fire properties rated as class A or class 1 as its fire properties complies with in the specified range of class A or 1.

  • EPS smoke development index (SDI): 200 As per ASTM E84 (450 as Max)
  • EPS Flame Spread Index (FSI):  10 (Class A) As per ASTM E84 (0-25 as Max)

Flame-Spread Index Smoke Development
Class 1 or A 0 – 25 450 Maximum
Class 2 or B 26 – 75 450 Maximum
Class 3 or C 76 – 200 450 Maximum

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a rigid cellular plastic foam material derived from petroleum and natural gas byproducts. The spherical beads of resin are subjected to steam, which causes the thermoplastic polystyrene to soften and expand up to 40 times its original volume. Each small bead of polystyrene is fully sealed so called 95% closed cell insulation.
EPS is produced in a wide range of densities from 8 to 50 kg/m3 providing a varying range of physical, mechanical properties. These are matched to the various applications in the construction sector such as Insulation for roofs, walls, floor and foundations, etc. Major application of EPS is as thermal insulation followed by light weight void fill, packing, packaging and art& decoration.
EPS has a successful history of efficient use in industrial, commercial, cold storage and residential construction. Where energy efficiency and cost effectiveness have long been primary design considerations, architects have made EPS the dominant thermal insulation.

EPS has excellent compressive strength of 50-300 KPA which meets the requirement of all type construction applications.

Worldwide EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) also is popularly known us following generic names: Styrofoam, Styropor, Rigifoam, Fillin, Geofoam, Isofoam, Insofoam & Thermocole.

Polystyrene, sometimes abbreviated as “PS”, is an aromatic polymer made from the chemical styrene, a liquid hydrocarbon that is commercially manufactured from petroleum by the chemical industry. Polystyrene is a thermoplastic substance that normally exists in solid state at room temperature, but melts if heated (for molding or extrusion), and becomes solid again when cooled. Polystyrene can be recycled, and has the number “6” as its recycling symbol.

Polystyrene is one of the most widely used kinds of plastic. Pure solid polystyrene is a colorless, hard plastic with limited flexibility. It can be cast into molds with fine detail. Polystyrene can be transparent or can be made to take on various colors. Solid polystyrene is used, for example, in disposable cutlery, plastic models, CD and DVD cases, and smoke detector housings. Products made from foamed polystyrene are nearly ubiquitous, for example: packing materials, insulation, and foam drinks cups. Discarded polystyrene, which does not biodegrade, is often abundant in the outdoor environment, particularly along shores and waterways.

Polystyrene is commonly produced in three forms:

Extruded polystyrene

Extruded polystyrene (PS) is economical, and is used for producing plastic model assembly kits, plastic cutlery, CD “jewel” cases, smoke detector housings, license plate frames, and many other objects where a fairly rigid, economical plastic is desired. Production methods include stamping and injection molding.

Foams

Polystyrene foams are good thermal insulators, and are therefore often used as building insulation materials, such as in structural insulated panel building systems.

They are also used for non-weight-bearing architectural structures (such as ornamental pillars).

Expanded polystyrene foam

Expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) is usually white and made of expanded polystyrene beads. Familiar uses include packing “peanuts” and molded packing material for cushioning fragile items inside boxes.

Extruded polystyrene foam

Extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) has air inclusions which gives it moderate flexibility, low density, and low thermal conductivity.

Yes! All EPS products can be painted with water-based paint. However, in case oil-based paint is needed, the surface must be coated with a special hard coating first. STYRO can supply a special kind of hard coating material suitable for EPS upon demand. (Pls. refer to the do’s and don’ts page for more information )

Yes, STYRO EPS can be bonded together using Super Styro Stick (SSS) special glue. This special glue is manufactured and supplied by STYRO. (Pls. refer to SSS glue page for more information)

Several tests and studies have proven that STYRO EPS insulation material installed in well-constructed roofs does not absorb appreciable moisture, even under the condition of prolonged, cold, damp winter. The small amount of moisture absorbed (an average of 0.2% by weight) has little or no effect on the compressive & flexural strength. STYRO EPS insulation retains between 95% and 97% of its thermal efficiency.

Though STYRO EPS has low water vapor transmission, STYRO EPS is not a vapor barrier. Rather, it “breathes” and, therefore needs no costly venting as do some other relatively impermeable insulation materials which could otherwise trap moisture within walls and roof assemblies.

Although Styro Eps provides a high level of moisture resistance and breathability, it is recommended to laminate with alum. Foil or foil scrim kraft (FSK) or LDPE sheet or bitumen based (non-solvent) adhesive can be applied as a vapor barrier coating on EPS.

According to DCL (Dubai Central Lab), regulation of all EPS products manufactured by STYRO for the construction applications are strictly compliant with (ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials / American Standard Test Method) ASTM C 578and ASTM E84 standards.
Below are other standards that are commonly required by some consultants and contractors:

  • BSI – British Standards ref : BS:3837
  • DIN standard  : 52612,43420: Deutsches Institut für Normung which means ‘German Institute of Standardization
  • EPS is the light weight and excellent eco-friendly insulation material contrary to the conventional materials available in the market for the reasons mentioned below:
  • It is a low-cost material with high R value.
  • It has a minimal carbon footprint as a thermal insulation.
  • Energy-saving.
  • NO CFC’s and HCFCs.
  • It is a green product; it meets the LEED standards (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design)
  • Easily disposed & recycled which minimizes its environmental impact.
  • Life cycle assessment (LCA) of EPS from manufacturing to disposal supports the environmental impact benefits of EPS for sustainable building & development.
  • Less ODP and GWP.

Yes! Its highly resilient energy-absorbing properties allow the buildings to withstand shocks, tremors and jolts caused by earthquakes. EPS acts as a buffer and protective barrier between the building’s footing and the neighboring soil as the soil applies extra pressure when it moves back & forth during tremor. EPS deforms in a controlled manner when placed against a structure. It can reduce earthquake impact by 40-50 percent.

EPS can be used as good impact sound insulation due to its unique properties of high-energy and shock absorption. According to the test conducted by BASF, its dynamic stiffness ranges from 43-66 MN/M3 at a frequency of 74 to 91 HZ.

Major causes like dwindling oil reserves and fossils, rapid population growth, increased demand of energy per capita, elevated energy cost. The mentioned reasons in addition to the Greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on Global warming issues have enlightened both developed and developing countries to save & conserve the energy since  “Energy saving equals to Energy Producing”.

Although energy cost to the public is subsidized by the Government in certain countries (countries like GCC), it became Government’s top most priority to study the various ways & means to cut down the cost of energy.  As a result of various studies, statistic and researches conducted by the Government authorities it has been proved that the total energy consumed by the huge industries and factories are negligible in comparison with the energy consumed by  modern buildings.

As several studies have proven, almost all the buildings fall under ‘most vulnerable’ category in energy consumption, Municipalities have taken serious initiatives and enforced the contractors or end-users to INSULATE buildings from roof to wall. 

Nowadays, building among GCC countries are NOT approved by the municipalities if the insulation is not considered during the design stage itself. Furthermore, it became compulsory and mandatory; utility and energy connections cannot be obtained from the concerned authorities without having a clearance letter from insulation contractor / suppliers.  

As a progress of development on the above initiative it has been decided to encapsulate the existing old buildings that are not insulated. Exterior Insulation Finishing System applicators (EIFS / ETICS) came in picture to insulate the existing old building and enhance aesthetic look of those buildings instead demolishing them.

Though energy cost to the public are subsidized by the Government in certain countries (countries like GCC) it became Government’s top most priority to study the various ways & means to cut down the cost of energy.  As a results of varies studies, statistic and researches conducted by the Government authorities it has been proved that the total energy consumed by the huge Industries and Factories are negligible in comparison with energy consumed by the modern Buildings.

As several studies proven that almost all the buildings falls under most vulnerable category in energy consumption, Municipalities have taken serious initiatives and enforced the contractors or end-users to INSULATE buildings from Roof to Wall. 

During recent days building approvals among GCC countries are not entertained by the Municipalities in case if the insulation is not considered during the design stage itself.  Furthermore it became so compulsory and mandatory otherwise Utility and Energy connections cannot be obtained from the concerned authorities without having a clearance letter from insulation contractor / suppliers.  

As a progress of development on above initiative it has been decided to encapsulate the existing old buildings which are not insulated. Exterior Insulation Finishing System applicators (EIFS / ETICS) came in picture to insulate the existing old building and enhance aesthetic look of those buildings instead demolishing them.

EPS White & (Grey) EPS actually consist of the same type of insulation material, but they differ in color and R value. Graypor is an evolution of white EPS & innovative insulation material. To be specific, it achieves 20 % better insulation value (K value) contrary to white EPS.

Speaking of application, it is the ideal material to utilize as “wall insulation” for all kind of buildings. Its superior “R” value makes it highly suitable for other insulation applications like:

  • EIFS / ETICS.
  • Cavity wall insulation.
  • Façade insulation.
  • Pitched roof insulation.
  • Impact Sound insulation.
  • Soffit insulation.
  • ICF and many more.


Advantages of Graypor:

  • Cost Effectiveness.
  • Fast.
  • Withstand hurricanes and earthquakes.
  • Higher insulation values!
  • Chic construction site!
  • Color.

Graypor (Grey EPS) in Comparison to White EPS

Styro Graypor has become the top favorite user-friendly material for EIFS & ETICS applicators due to the following reasons:

  • It is a premium quality material of German origin.
  • Its excellent dimensional stability avoids any post cracks or shrinkage.
  • It is smooth, true level surface protects from any undulation after EIFS finishing.
  • It is very light in weight to handle at site.
  • It is easily applied and does not cause any skin irritations.
  • EPS is completely compatible with other materials used in construction including cements, plasters, salt, fresh water and so on.
  • It is a versatile material, can be cut into the shape or size required by the construction project.
  • Styro Graypor is 100 % Fire retardant, it has low Fire spread and Smoke development index therefore it has been categorized under “A” class in building insulation as per ASTM E84 standards.
  • Its shock-absorption property is in the favor of thermal cum acoustic insulation.
  • It is very durable.
  • It is not a 100% vapor barrier which will allow the building to breathe
  • It has a very low water absorption rate in relation with fiber and mineral panels.
  • Unlike loose fiber panels, EPS is 95% closed cell insulation. It has excellent mechanical properties making it a good choice for EIFS.
  • Lower thickness can achieve superior “R” values which will hence reduce wall thickness.
  • It is a 100% recyclable, sustainable and Eco-friendly material since it is free from CFC and HCFCs.
  • EPS does not absorb moisture and its thermal and mechanical properties are unaffected by damp, humidity or moisture.

EPS can be used for both cold and hot insulation, and the application temperature ranges from -110 ℃ to +110℃.

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