Thermal conductivity of foam, comparison with other materials

It is essential to comprehend the thermal conductivity of insulating materials in order to preserve home comfort and energy efficiency. Foam insulation is unique in the field of thermal insulation because of its lightweight and adaptable characteristics. When it comes to thermal performance, foam insulation has definite advantages over more conventional materials like cellulose and fiberglass.

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyurethane foam are two types of foam insulation that have outstanding thermal conductivity ratings. This implies that it efficiently reduces the amount of heat transferred through ceilings, walls, and floors, assisting in the year-round stabilization of interior temperatures. Because of its high R-value per inch, it is recommended in areas with frequent extremes in temperature.

In general, foam insulation offers better thermal resistance when compared to alternative materials like fiberglass, which is well-liked for its affordability and simplicity of installation. As a result, over time, heating and cooling expenses will decrease because less energy is needed to keep interior spaces comfortable.

Furthermore, foam insulation has a reputation for being moisture resistant, which aids in preventing the growth of mold and mildew, a problem that is frequently encountered with materials that absorb water, like fiberglass. This characteristic lowers the chance of allergens, extending the life of building structures and improving indoor air quality.

In conclusion, knowing how thermally conductive foam insulation is in relation to other materials emphasizes how crucial it is to contemporary building techniques. Because of its superior thermal performance, resistance to moisture, and long-term cost-effectiveness, it is a wise option for raising the comfort and energy efficiency of both residential and commercial buildings.

Thermal conductivity and density of foam -polex, comparison with PSB polystyrene foam

The heat conductivity coefficient, foam density, and polystyrene PSB values of different brands are shown in a comparative table when they are dry and the temperature is between 20 and 30 °C. Additionally, the range of their operating temperature is mentioned.

Unlike the unreasonable polystyrene PSB polystyrene, Penoplax thermal insulation is created at high pressure and temperature, along with the addition of a foaming agent, and then squeezed through an extruder. The closed microporous structure of foamplex is made possible by this production technique.

When it comes to the thermal conductivity coefficient λ, Penoplax is less than PSB polystyrene foam; its value is 0.03… 0.036 W/(m · Grad). The thermal conductivity of foamedex is roughly thirty percent lower than this indicator when compared to conventional insulations like mineral wool. It should be mentioned that the PSB polystyrene thermal conductivity ranges from 0.037 to 0.043 W/(m · Grad), depending on the brand.

The manufacturer states that the density of the foam-polex ρ varies depending on the brand and can range from 22 to 47 kg/m 3. The densities of the lightest brands, PSB-15 and PSB-25, range from 6 to 25 kg/m3, respectively. The density of PSB polystyrene is listed below.

The polystyrene foam can only be used at a maximum temperature of 75 °C. It is marginally higher and can reach 80 ° C in PSB foam. The foam does not melt at temperatures over 75 °C, but its strength properties deteriorate. The manufacturer has not disclosed how much this thermal insulation material’s thermal conductivity increases under such circumstances.

Mark of the polystyrene foam	λ, W/(m · K)	ρ, kg/m 3	tslave, ° C
Penopropliex
Penopolex stoves Comfort	0.03	25 … 35	-100 …+75
Foam -polex foundation	0.03	29 … 33	-100 …+75
Penopropliex roof	0.03	26 … 34	-100 …+75
Penopropliex segments 35	0.03	33 … 38	-60 …+75
Penopropliex segments 45	0.03	38 … 45	-60 …+75
Penopropliex block	0.036	from 25	-100 …+75
Penopolex 45	0.03	40 … 47	-100 …+75
Penopropliex slope	0.03	from 22	-100 …+75
Penopropliex facade	0.03	25 … 33	-100 …+75
Penopropliex wall	0.03	25 … 32	-70 …+75
Penopropliex ge	0.03	28 … 36	-100 …+75
Penopropliex base	0.03	from 22	-100 …+75
PSB polystyrene foam (polystyrene)
PSB-15	0.042 … 0.043	up to 15	up to 80
PSB-25	0.039 … 0.041	15 … 25	up to 80
PSB-35	0.037 … 0.038	25 … 35	up to 80
PSB-50	0.04 … 0.041	35 … 50	up to 80

It should be mentioned that the penoplax’s closed microporous structure virtually prevents moisture absorption, keeps mold, fungus, and other microorganisms out of its environment, and is safe for people and the environment.

Furthermore, Penoplyx, an extruded polystyrene foam, exhibits a relatively high chemical resistance to a wide range of building materials. Nonetheless, heat-insulating plates may soften, shrink, or even dissolve when exposed to certain organic compounds and solvents listed in the table below.

We examine how the special qualities of foam affect the energy efficiency of home facades by comparing the thermal conductivity of foam insulation to other materials. The ability of foam to resist heat transfer and its implications for preserving comfortable indoor temperatures while lowering energy costs are highlighted in this article’s practical comparisons. Homeowners can improve their home’s thermal performance by selecting appropriate insulation by being aware of these distinctions.

As a foam density affects its cost

The concept of density is related to multiple points of view. In Cuba, one kilogram per meter is the unit of measurement for this parameter. This figure is computed using the weight-to-volume relationship. The qualitative properties of polystyrene foam that are related to its density cannot be determined with 100% accuracy. The insulation’s capacity to retain heat is unaffected by its weight.

When it comes to purchasing insulation, consumers are constantly curious about its density. We can determine the material’s strength, weight, and thermal conductivity using these data. The foam density consistently falls within a specific range.

The cost of production is established by the manufacturer while producing polystyrene foam plates. The weight of the insulation will have an impact on this value based on the density calculation formula. Because a material is denser the heavier it is, the higher its cost. This is because polystyrene plays a significant role in the raw materials used to make the heat insulator slabs. It represents around 80% of the final product’s total cost.

As a change in the thermal conductivity of foam affects its density?

The air-filled polystyrene foam balls are used to make polystyrene.

Air is present in the pores of all thermal insulation materials. The quantity of atmospheric air in the material determines the enhanced thermal conductivity indicator. Its coefficient of thermal conductivity decreases with size. Air-filled balls made of polystyrene foam are used to produce foam.

This indicates that the thermal conductivity of polystyrene foam is independent of its density. Thermal conductivity changes within the percentage shares if this value changes. Since air has the lowest coefficient of thermal conductivity, insulation with a 100% air content is known to have a high capacity to retain heat.

There is a high level of energy conservation because of the insulation’s low thermal conductivity. The energy-saving potential of polystyrene foam and brick will differ greatly because a 12-centimeter heat insulator is equivalent to 210 centimeters of brick wall or a 45-centimeter wooden wall.

Foam’s coefficient of thermal conductivity, represented in digital form, falls between 0.037 and 0.043 W/MK. This value can be compared to an air conductivity indicator that is equivalent to 0.027 W/MK.

Features of thermal conductivity

Polistyle foam effectively retains both heat and cold. Its structure explains these kinds of opportunities. A vast number of sealed, multifunctional cells are constructively included in this material. Their sizes range from 2 to 8 mm. Additionally, each cell contains 98% air. He is the one who is a great heat insulator. The polystyrene walls of the cells receive the final 2% of the material’s mass.

You can see this by taking, say, a piece of foam. one square meter in area and one meter thick. One side is heated while the other is left cold. There will be a tenfold difference in temperature. The quantity of heat that moves from the warm to the cold portion of the sheet must be measured in order to calculate the heat conductivity coefficient.

Individuals are accustomed to and consistently curious about the density of polystyrene foam in vendors. All due to the strong correlation between density and heat. Modern foam doesn’t need to have its density checked. The production process for enhanced insulation allows for the inclusion of unique graphite materials. They maintain the material’s coefficient of thermal conductivity at the same level.

But what to buy?

Polystyrene stoves are widely available on the building materials market. Depending on the type, insulating plates can have high thermal conductivity. As an illustration: PSB-S 15 foam sheet is 2 cm thick and has a density of up to 15 kg/m3. The density of a sheet measuring between 2 and 50 cm is not higher than 35 kg/m3. It is simple to determine how polystyrene’s thickness affects its thermal conductivity when contrasting it with other materials that are comparable.

Selecting the material’s dimensions accurately is essential to applying any of the isolation methods. The following algorithm allows you to do the calculation:

• It is necessary to clarify the general heat-resistance. This value depends on the region in which it is necessary to perform the calculation, namely, on its climate.
• To calculate the heat-processing of the wall, you can use the formula r = p/k, where its thickness is equal to the value of P, and the K-coefficient of thermal conductivity of the foam.
• Of the constant indicators, we can conclude what resistance should be of isolation.
• The desired value can be calculated by the formula p = r*k, you can find the value of R based on the previous step and the heat conductivity coefficient.

Installation tips

The secret to a long service life—up to 50 years—and superior thermal insulation with the foamyplex will be proper installation. The surface that will be insulated with foamyplex must be properly prepared before installation work can begin. The foam needs to be carefully inspected for mold and damage if it is mounted on a brick or concrete wall. For the plane of contact with the foam to be homogeneous, cracks must be sealed. Both the mold and the antiseptic are cleaned. Also, one or more layers of primer must be applied in order to improve adhesion with foam adhesive compounds.

The fastening of the support plank marks the start of the foam installation process. It is fastened to the wall with self-tapping screws.

To ensure that the insulation sheets are precisely placed, it is crucial to level it. It is preferable to buy pre-made foam starting strips, which are bases with metal perforations.

In order to remove the cold bridges during installation, glue is applied to both the insulation’s surface and intersections.

What is polystyrene foam

The same formula is used to make all other foamed heaters, including this one. First, a special installation is filled with a liquid form of styrene. It reacts when a special reagent is added, causing a lot of foam to be released. Prior to solidification, the thickened, foamed finished mass is run through the molding apparatus. This process yields sheets of material that contain an enormous number of tiny air chambers inside of them.

This plate structure explains why polystyrene foam has such high insulation values. You know that the air heats up quite effectively, after all. Certain varieties of polystyrene foam have cells that hold different gases. Still, plates with air chambers are thought to be the best insulators.

The size of the coaches that are a part of the polystyrene structure can range from 2 to 8 mm. Their walls also make up around 2% of the total mass of the material. So, 98% of the air is made of polystyrene foam.

What is the difference between polystyrene foam polystyrene

Most enthusiasts for hand-built construction misunderstand the lingo. Different brands of extruded polystyrene foam are used for insulation and thermal insulation, as are foams with varying densities. Experts and experts love to shorten the awkward and difficult-to-pronounce word "extruded," so for the non-specialist, foam and polystyrene foam are effectively interchangeable.

Styrene polymerization products are utilized as insulation in both situations, along with a few additional ingredients to boost the material’s resistance to heat, for example. There is no distinction between polystyrene and polystyrene foam from the perspective of the polymer’s chemical system.

Practice, however, demonstrates that variations exist, even when using operating indicators:

• Foam is available in the form of massive blocks or very thick sheets of 50-200 mm. Polistyle foam is made relatively thin layers of 25-75 mm;
• Polistyal mass is characterized by high contact strength. Sheets laid on the soil or site, without consequences, withstand the weight of an adult;
• Foam blocks, especially after several months of staying under ultraviolet, are easy to crumble and scatter into separate balls – granules, extruded material is quite durable, it can hardly be cut with a knife, deform or crush it quite difficult.

Furthermore, there are notable distinctions in characteristics between polystyrene and polystyrene foam. They ought to examine them initially.

Mechanical and thermal insulation qualities of foamed polystyrene

The technology states that polystyrene granules, which resemble rounded balls with a diameter of 3-5 mm, are pressed to create foam blocks. Granules of butan, nitrogen, or freon are blown out of the molten polystyrene traction mass. It emerges as a light pellet with closed-wall bubbles as small as microns punctured through it.

Because there are many more air pores in the matrix when it is compressed from granules, the heat conductivity coefficient is lower.

Such granules do not pass air or water vapor, nor do they absorb water. The empty space is filled with air after being heated with hot steam and compressed between the polystyrene balls. As a result, the foam has a shorter direction of difference in strength and thermal conductivity compared to extruded polystyrene.

It is accurate to compare polystyrene foam with foam from a single category, such as light brands, to ensure accuracy:

• For the foam block PSB-C25, the density and the heat conductivity coefficient are 15-16 kg/m3, 0.025-0.030 W/m*K, 0.025-0.030. Bending strength – 0.18 MPa;
• Extruded polystyrene P35, GOST17177-94, the same indicators higher, density-33-35 kg/m3, thermal conductivity -0.028-0.030 W/m*K, strength-0.25 MPa.

Crucial! The properties of foam are listed under dry conditions. The material’s high capillary content gives it a propensity to absorb water vapor.

Polistyle blocks have the advantage of having greater strength and virtually no moisture absorption of any kind, though GOST permits up to 0.2% of water to be absorbed on the first day.

Additionally, polystyrene foam is produced using a different technology. Actually, this is a polystyrene melt that is cured under pressure and heavily saturated with gaseous freon. It emerges as a cast, comparatively plastic substance with a large number of tiny bubbles that has stable thermal indicators and high strength.

Which is warmer – polystyrene or polystyrene foam

Extruded insulation brands have to be given preference at first glance. Despite being more expensive, foamy polystyrene outperforms other polystyrene when it comes to thermal insulation stability in challenging circumstances like heavy loads and flooding.

In more or less favorable conditions (stably low air humidity, lack of liquid water), the foam is characterized by higher indicators. The only comparison of the thermal conductivity of foam and polystyrene foam does not give a complete picture. When choosing a heater for dry rooms, the heat insulation density will be a more rational indicator, and in this case, the foam blocks differ for the better. Below the density means that there is more air in thermal insulation, which means that the total thermal conductivity of the material will be below. Therefore, for extreme conditions, we use extruded brands of polystyrene heat -insulation foam, for surfaced surfaces – ordinary foam. For insulation of walls foam or polystyrene foam.

Material	Thermal Conductivity (W/mK)
Foam Insulation	0.02 – 0.05
Fiberglass	0.032 – 0.04
Mineral Wool	0.031 – 0.05
Polyurethane	0.02 – 0.03

It is evident that foam insulation has major advantages over other materials when comparing its thermal conductivity. Extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) are two types of foam insulation that stand out for their superior heat resistance. In other words, it successfully lessens heat transfer through walls, assisting in the maintenance of comfortable interior temperatures and possibly reducing energy costs.

Foam insulation offers long-term thermal performance because, in contrast to conventional materials like fiberglass or cellulose, it doesn’t settle or break down over time. Because of its closed-cell structure, less air and moisture can pass through, which would otherwise reduce the effectiveness of the insulation. This is essential for preserving constant thermal comfort and avoiding problems like mold development brought on by moisture buildup.

In addition, foam insulation is easier to handle during installation than heavier materials because it is lightweight but durable. This can save installation times and labor costs, which is advantageous to contractors as well as homeowners. Furthermore, foam insulation is compatible with sustainable building practices because it can be recycled and frequently contains recycled materials.

In contrast, even though fiberglass and other materials are more widely used and less expensive, they might need thicker layers to have the same level of thermal resistance as foam. This may have an effect on building space and raise expenses. Despite being environmentally benign and composed of recycled paper, cellulose insulation may settle and lose some of its thermal efficiency over time.

To sum up, foam insulation is a strong choice for improving the building facades’ energy efficiency. Due to its exceptional heat conductivity, resilience, and sustainability, it is the material of choice for contemporary construction projects that seek to maximize comfort and environmental impact.

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