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.

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• Insulation.
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• Polyethylene.
• Polyurethane (PUR).
• Persistent organic pollutants (POP)
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• Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures.
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