New Zealand’s EPS Sector Group, together with Plastics NZ, is working to improve education about and recycling rates for expanded polystyrene sheets NZ. Waffle pod manufacturers offer a service where customers collect clean offcuts and return them to be recycled rather than leaving them on building sites to become litter.
Polystyrene insulation is treated with fire retardant during manufacture to make it non-combustible. The flame retardant used is hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD).
EXPOL ThermaSlab
EXPOL ThermaSlab is a rigid expanded polystyrene insulation that is precut to fit various floor joist spacings. It is a cost-effective way to make your home warmer and more energy efficient. This insulation is also ideal for new and existing homes in bushfire zones.
ThermaSlab is designed for residential applications and has a higher R-Value than standard EPS. It is also water resistant and easy to cut. It can be used for cladding insulation, concrete slab floor insulation, and protection for block walls. Its high thermal performance ensures that heat stays in during winter and out in summer.
It is available in two grades, R1.4 white and R1.8 black. Both products are independently certified by BRANZ and can be purchased from participating hardware stores nationwide – find your local outlet here. ThermaSlab is fire rated, termite-proof and won’t support the growth of mould or bacteria. It is also very durable and does not degrade over time.
Styroboard EPS
EPS is an economical, lightweight thermal insulation material. It is made from a petroleum product but does not leach harmful chemicals into the environment. It uses the blowing agent pentane which has a low Global Warming Potential. This helps to reduce fuel consumption in shipping. EPS is also recyclable. Depending on the end use, it can be moulded into different shapes and colours. Moulded inserts, working hinges and skins can all be used to add customised features.
It is ideal for commercial and residential applications such as cool-rooms, ceilings and void former under slabs. EPS is also fire retardant and does not emit any ozone depleting gases.
Styroboard EPS is also moisture resistant and retains its R-value over time. It also has a higher compressive strength than other insulation products. This feature is useful for construction, as it protects foundations against clay heave. It acts like a suspension for the foundations, contracting when the soil expands and pushing back when it contracts to prevent subsidence.
HIPS
HIPS is a versatile and highly-machineable plastic sheet product combining standard styrene with impact-improving additives. It is easy to cut and fabricate, as well as paint and glue. This makes it ideal for low strength structural applications where cost and machine ability are a priority.
Styroboard EPS is used across commercial and residential buildings including warehouses, offices, retail fit outs, sheds, garages and houses. It is weather resistant and has excellent thermal insulation properties with low moisture absorbency. It can be installed between timber studs, steel studs and concrete or masonry walls. It can also be used as a void former under slabs and as wall, roof, soffit and under floor insulation.
Polystyrene foam insulation, often known as styrofoam is a well-known and effective insulation for new builds, home renovations and retrofits. It’s an incredibly affordable solution for your home. All styrofoam insulation products are treated with a fire retardant called Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) as required by building codes around the world. HBCD is being phased out by representatives of 160 countries as part of the Stockholm Convention. Substitutes for HBCD do exist but it will take time for these to become widely available and approved by government agencies.
Airpop
Airborne pollution, especially from manmade sources like industrial emissions and wildfires, is becoming a global epidemic. These toxic airborne contaminants cause numerous diseases and negatively impact the health of millions. The need for effective, affordable and stylish solutions is greater than ever. Airpop is an innovative solution to this growing problem. Its aerodome design is engineered for ideal air exchange, perfect fit and unparalleled stylish protection. It’s hygienic, non-toxic and antimicrobial, resistant to mould, fungal growth and is also moisture proof. The 3D form stands off the face for comfortable wear without eyeglasses fogging or collapsing on the nose or lips.