Expanded polystyrene (EPS), is produced from small beads of polystyrene that are fed into a mold. Heat or steam is then applied to the mould which expands the polystyrene beads and fuses them together. The expansion process causes the expanded foam to fuse together in irregular patterns that leave tiny spaces or irregular gaps in-between the foam cells.
Insulating Properties of EPS Foam
Inconsistent gaps between the EPS foam cells allows air & moisture to permeate throughout the foam, making EPS a less than ideal solution for moist environments.
Strength and Rigidity of EPS Foam
EPS foam cellular structures contain voids or spacing in-between the cells; these gaps form an irregular structure throughout the foam, making it less dense and rigid than extruded foams.
What is XPS (Extruded Polystyrene)
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS), is manufactured via an extrusion process where plastic resin and other additives are combined and extruded through a die. The extruded foam then cools and expands into it’s final shape.
Insulating Properties of XPS Foam
XPS foam is considered to have a closed-cell structure wherein the cells are packed together tightly and have no voids or spacing between them. The tightly packed cells of XPS foam help prevent air & water ingress and make it more ideal for moist environments.
Strength and Rigidity of XPS Foam
XPS foam has a tightly packed closed-cell structure that makes it extremely rigid and strong, making it ideal for structural panels.
Polystyrene Foam Application in Sandwich Panels
EPS and XPS are both suitable for insulation foam panels. According to the conclusion above, XPS is stronger in rigidity and better in thermal insulation. Of course, it’s also more costly. XPS foam core panels are widely used in reefer trailers, freezer cargoes, caravan body panels, etc.
See more details of TOPOLO XPS sandwich panels