Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a thermoplastic foam material
that is rigid and has closed cells. It is made of solid polystyrene beads that
are dissolved in an expansion gas called pentane. Polystyrene is polymerized
from styrene monomer.
Little pockets of gas within each solid polystyrene bead
expand when heat is provided in the form of steam, generating closed cells
of expanded polystyrene. Due to the fact that these enlarged cells have almost
40 times the volume of the original polystyrene bead, big EPS blocks can be
molded into precise, customized shapes by applying a second heat treatment
using a mold.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is one of the highest-quality
insulation materials for homes, self-doers, and building experts. EPS has a
number of unique qualities, majorly including a moisture-resistant composition,
that sets it apart from other types of insulation materials.
EPS is unable to absorb moisture from the air due to its
hydrophobic, closed-cell structure. This indicates that the insulating material
is very resistant to moisture, which can lessen the chance of mold growth in a
variety of applications, particularly walls, basements, and roof panels. The
intrinsic breathability and resistance properties of EPS are also important in
maintaining its steady, long-term thermal performance.
What happens, though, if the EPS rigid foam becomes
wet?
Moisture Effects
Imagine dressing warmly and dryly and heading out into the harsh winter weather. Our bodies are properly insulated, so they do not need to work as hard to stay warm. Our bodies would have to work much more to keep us warm in the cold winter air if we got the same garments wet. This is due to the fact that damp clothing makes it easier for heat to escape the skin and conducts heat significantly more effectively than fabrics. Insulation follows the same guidelines.
Several studies show the effects of moisture on a building’s compressive strength. One of these is research conducted by the Energy Materials Testing Laboratories (EMTL) that showed how EPS installed a well-built roof structure that, even in extreme circumstances characteristic of long, cold, and wet winters, did not collect enough moisture. Between 95% and 97% of the material’s thermal efficiency is retained when the same amount of moisture (0.2 percent by weight) is absorbed since it has little to no effect on the material’s flexural or compressive strength.
In conclusion, EPS is an insulating material with significant performance attributes that is highly breathable and resistant to moisture. Its ability to expel moisture guarantees long-term thermal performance helps to produce a cozy, energy-efficient atmosphere, and lowers the possibility of mold formation.