Graphite Styrofoam, often referred to as “gray Styrofoam” or “Neopor,” is more expensive than traditional white Styrofoam. Is the higher price justified? What are the insulation properties of graphite Styrofoam? What are its drawbacks?
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Although standard white Styrofoam (EPS) is significantly more popular due to its affordability, graphite Styrofoam is also available on the market. It is easily recognizable by its gray color, which results from a certain percentage of graphite added to it. This has led to its common nickname “gray Styrofoam,” and it is also known as “Neopor,” a brand name used by BASF.
Composition and Production Differences
While the composition and manufacturing process of EPS boards (white Styrofoam) and graphite Styrofoam are similar, there are key differences. During the expansion of polystyrene and the production of graphite Styrofoam, a specific amount of graphite is added. This gives it its characteristic and unusual gray color for an insulation material.
Improved Insulation Properties
Thanks to the addition of graphite, this insulation material has approximately 20% better insulating properties. Graphite reflects a portion of heat like a mirror, reducing thermal conductivity. According to some manufacturers, graphite Styrofoam has characteristics comparable to rock wool, yet it is more affordable.
Thinner Insulation Layers
Better thermal conductivity allows for the installation of thinner insulation layers while maintaining the same level of thermal insulation. This can be particularly significant in construction, especially for facades with many openings, such as windows.
Mechanical, Thermal, and Chemical Properties
Graphite Styrofoam has similar mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties to standard white Styrofoam. It is easy to shape, precisely manufactured, and straightforward to install, making it ideal for achieving flat, aesthetically pleasing surfaces. This makes it a popular choice for DIY construction projects.
Compatibility with Other Materials
Graphite Styrofoam does not react with other materials such as cement, gypsum, bitumen, or lime. Like white Styrofoam, it is excellent for insulating facade walls. This insulation material is breathable, albeit not as much as rock wool, but it still provides adequate breathability for wall insulation without the risk of mold.
Popularity and Cost Considerations
Despite its advantages, graphite Styrofoam is not nearly as popular as standard white Styrofoam. The reason isn’t solely the higher cost, as the price difference between the two insulation materials isn’t significant. The primary reason for the greater popularity of white Styrofoam is that the difference in quality between these two insulation materials is minimal. According to many professionals, the difference in insulation quality between an eight-centimeter layer of standard Styrofoam and graphite Styrofoam of the same thickness is hardly noticeable in practice.
Installation Tips
Professionals who have installed graphite Styrofoam highlight an important detail: avoid exposing it to direct sunlight before applying the mesh and final layer. The dark color of this Styrofoam absorbs a large amount of solar energy, which can adversely affect the drying of the adhesive.
By considering these factors, you can decide whether the higher cost of graphite Styrofoam is justified for your insulation needs. While it offers improved thermal properties and compatibility with various construction materials, its popularity remains lower than that of traditional white Styrofoam due to minimal differences in overall performance.