The Ozone Layer
Expanded Polystyrene Foam
Expanded polystyrene EPS is a closed cell, lightweight foam which by itself depending upon density, has a compressive strength. between 1- and 6- pounds per square inch, EPS is an ideal foam for most construction applications. EPS is used exclusively in ThermaSAVE building panels.
Unlike polyurethane and formaldehyde foams, which use unstable gases in their manufacture, EPS contains only stabilized air. Thus its R-Value will not decrease, as others do, with age. EPS can withstand the thermal shock of extreme freeze-thaw cycling without loss of insulation value or structural integrity.
EPS is an inert (plastic product with no future chemical activity) insulation material. It has no nutritive value for plants, insects or other animals to feed upon. It will not rot and is extremely resistant to mildew.
The Ozone Issue
The news media has brought national attention to the scientific communities well documented ozone loss theory. Over recent years, the uncontrolled release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s) are reducing or eroding the atmospheric ozone layer of the earth and this erosion continues at an unacceptable rate.
The specific cause of the depletion is unknown. Some scientists speculate that this is mainly due to the release of CFC’s. These gases are used throughout the world in refrigeration systems, aerosol cans, and some plastic foams. It is in the area of plastic foams, which seems to create the most confusion. Some foams use CFC’s as a blowing agent and some do not. The following insulations do contain CFC’s as a blowing agent: isocyanurates, extruded polystyrenes, and phenalics.
EXPANDED POLYSTRENE DOES NOT CONTAIN CFC’S! The blowing agent used to manufacture EPS is pentane, which is totally free of chlorofluorocarbons and unrelated to the CFC/ozone controversy. Therefore, if you too share the present concerns of the scientific community regarding ozone depletion and its potential long-term ramifications, then we strongly suggest the use of expanded polystyrene as used exclusively in ThermaSAVE Building Panels.
Please visit the ThermaSAVE Advantages page to learn more.