Advantages of this material
Thermal insulation
Thanks to its closed cellular structure, EPS traps air and protects against temperature variations.
Robustness
EPS can withstand heavy loads without deforming, providing long-lasting reliability.
Lightness
Its low density reduces transport costs and carbon footprint and simplifies handling.
Shock absorption
EPS is ideal for protecting fragile objects thanks to its ability to effectively absorb impacts.
Buoyancy
Perfect for nautical applications, EPS stays afloat while providing excellent durability.
Recyclability
EPS is recyclable and can be transformed into new products, promoting a circular economy.
Flexibility
It can be cut or molded to size, suitable for various industrial and decorative projects.
Sound insulation
EPS provides effective sound protection, reducing noise pollution in buildings.
WHAT IS EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE?
A part of expandable polystyrene is produced by Knauf in Belgium. This material is formed by polymerizing styrene and adding a blowing agent, pentane. During pre-expansion, a crucial step for molding, the polystyrene beads swell up to 50 times their initial volume thanks to steam, thus acquiring a honeycomb structure composed of 98% air.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EXPANDED AND EXTRUDED POLYSTYRENE
Although expanded polystyrene (EPS) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) are both derived from polystyrene, they differ in their manufacturing process and applications.
EPS, formed by expanding polystyrene beads, is known for its lightweight and versatility, making it ideal for thermal insulation and packaging. It is also more easily recyclable. In comparison, XPS, produced through extrusion, is denser and stronger, but less flexible and recyclable.
A RECYCLABLE AND RECYCLED MATERIAL
Expanded polystyrene is fully recyclable. It can be crushed and integrated into new technical parts or packaging, or compacted to become a raw material again for the manufacture of other plastic products.
Knauf offers the Knauf Circular® service, an initiative for the collection and recovery of EPS, giving a second life to EPS offcuts, packaging and cushioning.
STANDARD EPS PRODUCTS
- EPS food containers: Ideal for transporting fragile products with a short shelf life.
- Thermal packaging: Resistant to temperature changes and shocks.
- Industrial packaging: Protective corners, angles, blocks, to protect all types of products.
- EPS pallets: Widely used in air transport for their lightness.
- EPS insulators
CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS FOR SPECIFIC PROJECTS
Thanks to the ease of cutting and molding EPS, we can eco-design single-material solutions that comply with current regulations. Versatile and highly customizable, EPS is suitable for a variety of aesthetic designs. Contact our team for a tailor-made solution that perfectly meets your needs.
APPLICATIONS OF EPS IN DIFFERENT SECTORS
Building
EPS, prized for its lightweighting and thermal insulation capabilities, improves the energy efficiency of buildings and is ideal for civil engineering works. It is found in insulation boards, HVAC system components, swimming pool building blocks, etc.
Food industry
EPS has a “food contact grade” which allows to not modify or transfer substances to food. It provides excellent thermal insulation, preserving the nutritional and organoleptic qualities of food.
Pharma
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulated boxes are essential for maintaining the cold chain when transporting pharmaceutical or temperature-sensitive products, ensuring their integrity and effectiveness.
Packaging
The lightness, shock and vibration absorption of EPS make it an excellent material for industrial packaging and protection, meeting logistics and goods transport requirements.
WHY CHOOSE KNAUF INDUSTRIES FOR YOUR EPS SOLUTIONS?
Knauf Industries not only supplies expanded polystyrene, but also offers cellular molding, extrusion, thermoforming and plastic injection technologies. Our range includes circular materials, offering the same characteristics as traditional EPS.
PERSONALIZED SUPPORT FOR YOUR PROJECTS
Our dedicated team supports you at every stage of your project. Our design office, innovation center, ID Lab, constantly explores new materials and has the tools for digital simulation and eco-design, thus ensuring innovative solutions adapted to your specific needs.
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