EPS is 100% recyclable. During 2009/2010 over 3000 tonnes of EPS was recycled in Australia.
EPS in Building
Expanded Polystyrene is widely used in many everyday building and construction situations where its light weight, strength and thermal insulation characteristics provide cost effective high performance solutions.
EPS in The Environment
Expanded Polystyrene's superior thermal insulation properties make a positive contribution to the environment.
EPS in Packaging
Expanded Polystyrene makes an ideal choice as a packaging medium due to its light weight and thermal insulation properties and ability to be custom moulded to virtually any shape or form imaginable.
Media Statement
EPSA is the peak body for manufacturers of expanded polystyrene (EPS) in Australia.
Our sympathies go out to those impacted by the devastating building fire in the United Kingdom.
There have been some media reports suggesting polyurethane, polystyrene and even polyester was used in connection with this tragic event. This is not the case.
The manufacturer of the cladding used on the Grenfell Tower, Arconic has confirmed the product used was Reynobond PE and they have withdrawn this product from sale.
The companies’ statement with regard to the withdrawal from sale of Reynobond PE can be found here: https://www.arconic.com/global/en/news/news_detail.asp?pageID=20170626000415en&newsYear=2017
Details about Reynobond PE can be found here: https://www.arconic.com/aap/north_america/en/product.asp?cat_id=915&prod_id=1534
In simple terms, Reynobond PE contains a polyethylene core between two aluminium sheets, which has limited fire retardant qualities.
The polyethylene referred to in the reports bears no relationship to the EPS product manufactured by EPSA members.
Further, EPSA requires members to use flame retardant material in all expanded EPS products manufactured for the building industry.
ENDS
For further information EPSA 03 6281 2320
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is used in packaging, building insulation and safety equipment. It is a highly valued product due to its durability, versatility, sterility, thermal insulation, shock absorbency and recyclability.
EPS is produced in a wide range of densities providing a varying range of physical properties. These are matched to the various applications where the material is used to optimise its performance and strength.