Graphite Polystyrene
Graphite polystyrene (GPS) has a polymer matrix that contains graphite, a common mineral, a stable, chemically inert form of carbon, composed of many layers of graphene. The inclusion of graphite particles help to increase resistance to heat flow by reflecting radiant heat energy and reduces thermal conductivity to a greater extent than standard polystyrene.
The high-purity graphite particles are introduced into the raw material, polystyrene beads, which are heated at high temperatures and then treated with steam to create the cellularly dense structure in a similar way to standard polystyrene..
In terms of fire, there is some evidence that graphite can improve resistance to the spread of fire, while other studies have also looked at expanded graphite coating on polystyrene bead to improving flame retardancy. The indication is that most graphite polystyrenes are also treated with a fire retardant, although this is unclear and may vary from product to product.
- Certain manufacturers of the product highlight its sustainability credentials including;
- Higher performance, as described above.
- Recyclability, up to 100% with the possibility to contain post-industrial and post-consumer recycled waste.
- Manufacturiung processes are use relatively low-energy steam processes.
- Pentane can be used as a foaming agent, which has a GWP of zero and can be re-used, along with water.
- The product does not contain CFC, HCFC, HFC, formaldehyde, borate or produce methane gas.
In all cases performance characteristics, enviromental aswell as thermal should be cross-checked with individual products, preferrably with third party assessment. For furrher information see article The sustainability of construction works and in particular Environmental Product Declarations and Product Environmental Footprints.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Acrylic.
- Aircrete.
- Celotex RS5000 PIR insulation.
- Composites.
- Grenfell Tower fire.
- Insulation.
- LPCB certification and Kingspan.
- Polyethylene.
- Polyurethane (PUR).
- Persistent organic pollutants (POP)
- Phenolic foam insulation.
- Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures.
- SABRE.
- Transparent insulation materials.
- Types of insulation.
- Types of plastic in construction.
- Types of rigid foam insulation.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.