Polyurethane insulation is a closed cell material that resists heat transfer, reduces air pollutants and mold growth. There are three types: MEPS, XEPS, and liquid foam. MEPS and XEPS can be laminated with coatings and used in construction or refrigeration. Liquid foam expands to fill small spaces and is moisture and flame resistant.
Polyurethane insulation is a synthetic material with a high degree of resistance to heat transfer. It is designated as a closed cell type of insulation because its cell pockets are inflated with a non-chlorofluorocarbon gas, which gives the material a higher density and stiffer structure than open cell soft insulation material types. In general, the benefits of using polyurethane insulation over other materials include reduced infiltration of air pollutants and outdoor allergens, as well as resistance to water vapor and mold growth. There are three basic types of polyurethane insulation: molded expanded polystyrene foam board (MEPS), extruded polystyrene foam (XEPS), and liquid foam.
MEPS foam blocks or boards are also known in the industry as beadboard. That’s because the material contains beads that hold polystyrene, a thermoplastic, and a liquid hydrocarbon called pentane. When combined with a chemical blowing agent and subjected to heat, the pearls expand. The material is then injected into a mold and heated a second time. Depending on the type of beads, blowing agents and molds used, the resulting blocks or panels will have varying degrees of density.
XEPS is very similar to MEPS, but is more expensive as it undergoes a slightly different process. Instead of being heated and shaped, the polystyrene beads are placed in an extruder where they are mixed with chemical catalysts to melt them. When the blowing agent is introduced, the mixture releases gas and a thick, foaming liquid is produced. This liquid is then fed through a spinneret, from which it exits and continues to expand to its maximum capacity. Once cooled, the material is then cut to specification.
Both MEPS and XEPS polyurethane insulation types can be laminated with a variety of coatings to provide additional radiant value, as well as additional moisture and flame resistance. The type of liner used, ranging from kraft paper to heavy-duty aluminum foil and vinyl, depends on its application. Additionally, while these types of rigid foam insulation are commonly used in construction, they are also used to line picnic coolers, refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerated trucks.
Liquid polyurethane foam insulation typically has a lower density than molded or extruded insulation. However, its hedging ability is a distinct advantage. Once introduced into an open space, this material expands and spreads rapidly, which allows it to seep into the smallest cracks and crevices. Polyurethane foam insulation also has outstanding moisture repellent properties as well as being highly flame retardant.
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