Styrofoam™ Brand Scoreboard XPS Insulation is an extruded polystyrene foam insulation product manufactured by DuPont. The documentation details its fire resistance characteristics, physical specifications including available sizes and R-values, and recent updates to its formulation for reduced global warming potential. The material is characterized by its thermal and moisture performance, durability, and ease of handling. It is intended for use in building and construction applications requiring effective insulation.
Fire Resistance Characteristics
According to testing conducted per UL 723, Styrofoam™ Brand Scoreboard XPS Insulation exhibits a flame spread rating of 25 or less and a smoke developed rating of 450 or less. This testing assesses the surface burning characteristics of building materials. These results indicate a relatively low flammability and smoke production profile when exposed to fire, as defined by the UL 723 standard.
Product Specifications and Dimensions
The product is available in a range of thicknesses, widths, and lengths. The following table summarizes the specifications detailed in the provided documentation:
- 3/4 in. thickness, 4 ft. width, 8 ft. length, R-Value of 3.8, Square Edge
- 1 in. thickness, 4 ft. width, 8 ft. length, R-Value of 5, Square Edge
- 1 1/2 in. thickness, 4 ft. width, 8 ft. length, R-Value of 7.5, Square Edge
- 2 in. thickness, 4 ft. width, 8 ft. length, R-Value of 10, Square Edge
- 2 1/2 in. thickness, 4 ft. width, 8 ft. length, R-Value of 12.5, Square Edge
- 3 in. thickness, 4 ft. width, 8 ft. length, R-Value of 15, Square Edge
The documentation notes that additional sizes may be available, but availability varies by region and is subject to change. Users are directed to contact a local DuPont Sales Representative or call 1-866-338-7668 for further information regarding size availability. All listed dimensions refer to nominal sizes.
R-Value and Thermal Performance
The R-value represents the resistance to heat flow, with higher values indicating greater insulating power. Styrofoam™ Brand Scoreboard XPS Insulation’s R-values are consistent with the criteria of ASTM C578 and the requirements of the FTC R-value rule (16 CFR Part 460). The provided documentation specifies R-values ranging from 3.8 to 15, corresponding to the thicknesses listed above. XPS insulation generally maintains its R-value better than EPS (expanded polystyrene) when exposed to moisture.
Moisture Resistance and Durability
XPS insulation, including Styrofoam™ Brand Scoreboard, absorbs significantly less water than EPS products. Absorbed water can cause damage in freeze/thaw conditions, making the lower water absorption of XPS a beneficial property for durability. The material’s structure contributes to its resistance to moisture penetration.
Vertical Compressive Strength and Design Considerations
The documentation indicates that vertical compressive strength is measured at 10 percent deformation or at yield, whichever occurs first. As Styrofoam™ Brand Extruded Polystyrene Foam Insulations are visco-elastic materials, the documentation advises that adequate design safety factors should be used to prevent long-term creep and fatigue deformation. This suggests that the material can deform over time under sustained load, and appropriate engineering considerations are necessary to account for this behavior.
Recent Formulation Updates: Low-GWP XPS Insulation
In 2019, DuPont initiated a reformulation of Styrofoam™ Brand XPS Insulation to offer a low global warming potential (GWP) version. This transition was completed by the end of 2023. All North American manufacturing sites now produce the low-GWP formulation, which is identified by a new grey color. This change reflects a commitment to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the product.
Sustainability and Transparency
DuPont states a commitment to transparency in reporting and quality at every level of production. The company has purchased Renewable Energy Credits to offset its electricity usage since 2016. The reformulation to a low-GWP formulation further demonstrates a focus on sustainability and achieving the company’s 2030 Sustainability Goals. DuPont also emphasizes its investment in technology innovations to support the design and construction of energy-efficient, resilient, and durable structures.
Key Benefits Highlighted
The documentation highlights several key benefits of using Styrofoam™ Brand Scoreboard XPS Insulation:
- Long-term value and R-value retention
- Durability
- Ease of handling
- Exceptional thermal and moisture performance
These benefits position the product as a high-performance insulation solution for a variety of building applications.
Conclusion
Styrofoam™ Brand Scoreboard XPS Insulation offers a combination of thermal performance, moisture resistance, and durability. Recent updates to the formulation demonstrate a commitment to sustainability through the adoption of a low-GWP version. The product is available in a range of sizes and thicknesses to meet diverse construction needs. Users should consult the provided documentation and contact DuPont directly for the most up-to-date information on availability and specific application guidelines.