Expanded polystyrene is a widespread heat-insulating material, known to everyone as polystyrene foam. Its ability to retain heat determines the still air isolated in closed cells. The material is lightweight, durable, easy to process and does not require special protective equipment when working with it. It would seem – the perfect material ?!
So why the disputes around the foam insulation do not subside? Answers to topical issues of safety, durability, combustibility, tolerance and application rules in construction, as well as attractiveness for mice – in our review. Experts “Construction” understood.
Is it harmful? Pentane Expanded polystyrene consists of 98% of air and only 2% of polystyrene, which is the feedstock for its production and obtained by polymerization of styrene. The high percentage of air in the structure of the material is ensured by almost complete (80–90% during primary and 10–20% during secondary foaming) substitution of the blowing agent (pentane), which is initially contained in the granules and when they are heated becomes volatile, expanding himself and expanding (foaming) polystyrene granules. Pentane residues “disappear” at the stage of aging of granules and finished blocks. By the time the final product is delivered to the consumer, there is either no pentane in the foam products at all, or its content is so low that it poses no threat to human health.