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EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE

Polystyrene is made by polymerising styrene which is produced by combining benzene and ethylene. The polystyrene thus produced is one of the thermoplastic materials sometimes called linear polymers. These are materials which soften on the application of heat and harden as they cool.

The expanded foam (known as EPS) is produced as small beads containing a blowing agent which is expanded by treatment with steam to form pre-foam of the required density. The pre-foam is then fed into moulds and more heat (steam) is applied. This heat fuses the beads together to produce items in a variety of shapes and sizes, or to make blocks for cutting into sheets and other products.

EPS contains no CFC’s and is considered ozone-friendly by the Wildlife Society of South Africa. Sagex has more than 50 years experience in the manufacture of EPS and introduced the product into the South African market.

QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The Springs EPS facility is ISO 9001:2008 accredited.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
  • Resistant to vibration
  • Low mass
  • Thermally efficient
  • Recyclable
  • CFC free, physiologically and chemically harmless
  • Resistant to aging, mildew, bacteria and rot
  • Easily cut and worked (fine toothed saw and conventional hand tools)
  • Easily bonded ensure adhesive is compatible with EPS
  • Easily painted using high quality acrylic PVA applied by brush or spray
FIRE PROPERTIES
  • Flame retardant EPS distinctly reduces the flammability and the spread of flame on the surface of foamed articles. This product is self-extinguishing as soon as the ignition source is removed
  • Sagex FR grade (Styfrene unfaced) has obtained a B/B1/2/H&V with & without sprinklers when tested in accordance with SANS 428
THERMAL PROPERTIES
Refer to physical properties table.
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
EPS is not known as a good sound absorbing product due to its closed cell structure and low density. Isover offers a range of alternative acoustical insulation products if required.
DURABILITY
  • Odourless, inert and fully compatible with all standard building materials & components
  • Resistant to fresh water, salt water, alcohol, weak & certain strong acids, weak & strong alkalis, resistant to most vegetable and animal oils
  • EPS is vulnerable to ketones, esters, hydrocarbon chlorides, benzol, petrol, fuel & turpentine ether
  • Will not promote corrosion of steel, copper or aluminium
  • Will not sustain vermin - Will not breed or promote fungi, mould or bacteria
  • Rot proof
APPLICATION
Sagex EPS has a 50 year proven track record as a cost competitive insulation material with application in a wide range of industries. Excellent thermal properties, lightweight and other user friendly features combine to provide almost infinite product potential.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (Click on Image to enlarge)
TOOLS NEEDED FOR INSTALLATION
Basic carpentry tools needed.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Note: Adhesives/paint must be compatible with EPS Refer to our technical solution centre.
HANDLING & STORAGE
As per all items in storage, fire safety regulations should always be considered. All health & safety regulations should be adhered to and complied with. Product should always be stored undercover and protected from the elements.
ENVIRONMENTAL
  • CFC free
  • Recyclable
  • Does not decompose into harmful substances
Isover reserves the right to alter or amend product specification without notice. The information given in this publication is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Whilst Isover will endeavour to ensure publications are up to date, it is the users’ responsibility to check with us that it is correct prior to use.
Downloadable Documents
Document
Link
Created/Modified
Product Data Sheet 2008