EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) Insulation

EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) Insulation is a moisture-resistant closed-cell foam which contains no ozone depleting CFCs, HCFCs or HFC blowing agents, dyes, or formaldehyde and is 100% recyclable.

EPS offers outstanding flexibility in design and is ideal for most construction needs, offering the best insulating value per dollar spent of any material available today. Additionally, its long-term insulation value is assured since aging has absolutely no effect upon performance.

Technical Data — EPS Tapered Insulation meets or exceeds physical and thermal property standards as established in ASTM C 578

Physical Properties Units ASTM Test Type I Type VIII Type II Type IX Type XIV
Compressive Resistance @ 10% Strain (2″ cube) min psi (kPa) C 1621, C 165 10 (70) 13 (90) 15 (104) 25 (173) 40 (276)
Flexural Strength (typical) psi (kPa) C 203 25 (173) 30 (208) 35 (240) 50 (345) 75 (517)
Thermal Resistance (R-Value) per 1″ thickness @ 75 ± 2°F (24 °C) min R* C 177, C 518 3.9 3.9 4.0 4.2 4.3
Thermal Conductivity (k-Value) @ 75 ± 2°F (24 °C) BTU·in/(hr·ft²·°F) C 177, C 518 0.26 0.26 0.25 0.24 0.23
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion in./(in.·°F) — 0.000035 0.000035 0.000035 0.000035 0.000035
Moisture Resistance — Water Absorption (total immersion) % by volume max C 272 ≤ 4.0 ≤ 3.0 ≤ 3.0 ≤ 2.0 ≤ 2.0
Water Vapor Permeability (1″ thickness) max perm/in E 96 3.5 3.5 3.0 2.5 1.5
Oxygen Index (min.) % D 2863 ≥ 24.0 ≥ 24.0 ≥ 24.0 ≥ 24.0 ≥ 24.0
Dimensional Stability (change in dimensions) max % D 2126 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
Max. Service Temperature °F — 167 / 180 Long-term / Intermittent 167 / 180 167 / 180 167 / 180 167 / 180
Flame Spread / Smoke Developed (ASTM E84 / UL 723, 4″ max) Index E84 ≤ 25 / ≤ 450 ≤ 25 / ≤ 450 ≤ 25 / ≤ 450 ≤ 25 / ≤ 450 ≤ 25 / ≤ 450
Density, minimum lb/ft³ (kg/m³) C 303 0.90 (15) 1.15 (18) 1.35 (22) 1.80 (29) 2.20 (35)

*R means resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Federal Trade Commission requires using the R-Value publication at 75°F temperature when calculating R-Values of all insulations.

Insulation Considerations

  • DO NOT compare polyisocyanurate conditioned R-Values by RIC-TIMA and PIMA to EPS R-Values as per ASTM C-578.
  • Ask for a 20-year 100% R-Value Warranty.
  • EPS Insulation offers the Best Insulating Value Per Dollar of any material available today.

Features

  • Low Moisture Absorption: EPS’ moisture absorption is low. Moisture takes the path of least resistance and travels around individual beads rather than through them; the non-interconnecting cell structure prevents capillary absorption. Moisture absorption rates decrease as density increases, but is still minimal.
  • Permeability: EPS has a low permeability, but is not considered a vapor barrier.
  • Inert: EPS experiences no physical or chemical breakdowns over time. No nutrient value to animals, insects, or organisms. No nutrient value to bacterial growth, including mold.
  • No Leachates: EPS will not contaminate the surrounding environment.
  • Design Flexibility: EPS can be fabricated into various shapes and sizes as needed.

Design Cautions

  • Flammability: EPS is combustible and should not be exposed to flame or other ignition sources. EPS should be covered with a thermal barrier or otherwise installed in accordance with applicable code requirements.
  • Solvent Damage: EPS is susceptible to damage by petroleum-based solvents and their vapors. Protect with vapor barrier covering and/or use compatible adhesives when applicable.
  • Ultraviolet Damage: Extended exposure to sunlight causes minor discoloration and surface dusting. Shield EPS from direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.

The information in this document is presented in good faith and is believed to be accurate. All statements are made without warranty expressed or implied.

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