Architects and homebuilders often have a use for foam products — like graphite polystyrene. This product is a specialized material that has many benefits.
Read on to learn:
- What is graphite polystyrene?
- Benefits of graphite polystyrene
- Architectural applications for polystyrene
What is GPS foam?
GPS foam is shorthand for Graphite Polystyrene, which is a high-performance rigid foam that’s made by adding graphite particles to Expanded Polystyrene foam.
Without graphite, Expanded Polystyrene, or EPS, is a lightweight foam product with moisture resistance, high compressive strength, and superior insulation. With the addition of graphite, its thermal performance gets even better, making it an ideal choice for insulation and other applications where minimizing heat transfer is important.
Benefits of GPS
Graphite Polystyrene offers key advantages over traditional EPS for architectural designs and construction use:
Thermal Performance
GPS foam has enhanced insulating capabilities over other kinds of foam. It typically has an R-value of 4.7 to 5.0 per square inch, compared to standard EPS, which has an R-value between 3.6 and 4.4.
This is because the graphite particles act as tiny mirrors, reflecting radiant heat and reducing heat transfer. Standard EPS does not have the same functionality and relies on trapped air for insulation.
Space and Resource Efficiency
Because it offers better performance at the same thickness, GPS can lead to overall project efficiencies. Architects can design thinner wall assemblies that still meet the same thermal performance standards, meeting strict energy codes while preserving floor space.
Relying on GPS foam can reduce overall materials needed by up to 30%, due to its ability to achieve a specific R-value at thinner measurements.
Performance
EPS and GPS foam both maintain their thermal properties well over time because they use air as the main insulating method. GOS, with its reflective particles, doesn’t lose any R-value over time. It’s also semi-permeable, and its breathability also aids in its performance. Graphite Polystyrene foam allows moisture to escape, which reduces the risk of mold, rot, and other degradation.
Architectural Applications for GPS
For residential homebuilding projects, commercial construction, and other specialty applications, GPS is used for insulation, custom shapes, and more. Here are its main applications:
Sheathing
Sheathing is an essential barrier that is attached to the exterior walls, roofs, or floor framing that helps maintain structural integrity and acts as a base for finishes. When used as sheathing, GPS foam offers superior insulation and thermal performance, which can enhance energy efficiency.
Exteriors
GPS provides superior insulation at a thinner width than other foams, meaning it can meet strict energy codes while still adhering to your ideal design vision. GPS foam is most often used as part of an Exterior Insulation and Finish System, which uses an insulating board, barrier, base coat, and decorative finish. This means you have a wide array of style options that still offer the highest level of performance.
Roofing
With its breathability and excellent thermal performance, GPS is perfectly suited for modern roofing systems. Its durability, energy efficiency, and high R-value per inch are excellent for use where every bit of space matters. GPS foam can be used as flute fill, tapered systems, coverboards, or nail base, depending on the roofing assembly.
Pre-Cast
GPS foam is lightweight and easily fabricated, meaning it can be used in a myriad ways. This includes pre-cast applications, like creating complex architectural forms such as facade panels or non-structural shapes. It can also be pre-cast as the core of concrete “sandwich panels.” These are advanced building components that contain structural elements, insulation, and aesthetics for building envelopes. Pre-cast GPS can be custom cut to your project’s requirements, which offers ease of installation on-site.
Learn More About Applications and Benefits of GPS Foam
Creative Foam Products offers a commitment to quality and customer service that you can expect from a small, family-owned company, with the scale and flexibility of a large organization.
We service architects, builders, commercial installers, distributors, and manufacturers who need dependable lead times, competitive pricing, and unmatched reliability. Our GPS, EPS, and EPP products are all customizable to meet your specific requirements.
For more information, get in touch today.
