Insulation: suitable compressive strength

High-density closed-cell rigid expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation products are perfect for applications that demand high compressive strength, including the following:

  • Residential, commercial, or industrial concrete slabs
  • Terraces and parking areas
  • Recreation centres and skating rinks
  • Roads and lightweight fills
  • Exterior foundation walls

The right product at the right place

ISOLOFOAM HD-XHD series building insulation products, iFLEXFOAM rigid underslab insulation, as well as GEOFOAM products for civil engineering are designed for the above-mentioned applications and have several features that make them smart choices.

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UNDENIABLE BENEFITS

Rigid expanded polystyrene insulation products can be installed both above and below ground level, which makes them highly versatile. They also come with many other major advantages.

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH
Their compressive strength varies between 110 kPa (16 psi) and 414 kPa (60 psi). This resistance as well as their dimensional stability ensure good absorption of building movements.

THERMAL EFFICIENCY
Expanded polystyrene provides continuous, stable, and lasting insulation. Even when exposed to periods of intense freeze-thaw, it retains its thermal efficiency year after year.

EASE OF USE
Rigid expanded polystyrene insulation products are lightweight and available in a wide variety of sizes and thicknesses. Therefore, they are easy to use and they optimize handling and installation time.

COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION
For a number of reasons including its long-term performance and thermal resistance, expanded polystyrene is a cost-effective solution that provides significant energy savings.

ISOLOFOAM SOLUTIONS

For successful projects and maximum savings, it is wise to choose insulation products that offer the appropriate compressive strength. Here are a few typical projects and Isolofoam Group’s rigid expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation products that perfectly comply with applicable standards and exceed the requirements.

CHILDCARE CENTRE

Quotation specifications:

  • Concrete slab: 127 mm (5 in.) thickness
  • Without reinforcing bars

UNDERSLAB INSULATION
ISOLOFOAM HD160
R7.5 (RSI 1.32)
Compressive strength: 110 kPa (16 psi)

FIRE STATION 1

Quotation specifications:

  • Concrete slab: 200 mm (8 in.) thickness
  • With reinforcing bars: 15M at 400 mm c/c both ways

UNDERSLAB INSULATION
ISOLOFOAM XHD200
R5 (RSI 0.88)
Compressive strength: 140 kPa (20 psi) considering a weight of 13,000 kg/axle (CL3-625)

ARENA 1

Quotation specifications:

  • Concrete slab: 150 mm (6 in.) thickness
  • With reinforcing bars: 15M at 400 mm c/c both ways

UNDERSLAB INSULATION
ISOLOFOAM XHD300 OR IFLEXFOAM 300
Amount of insulation depending on mechanical system
Compressive strength: 210 kPa (30 psi) considering that the slab could have to support the weight of a 18,000 kg/axle vehicle (CL2-625)

FOUNDATIONS

Quotation specifications:

  • Exterior insulation
  • Foundation walls: depth of 10 ft. or less with a parking lot nearby

THE RIGHT PRODUCT
ISOLOFOAM HD160
R15 (RSI 2.64)
Compressive strength: 110 kPa (16 psi)

Projects


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Parliament Hill of Québec, QC

Lightweight fill - landscaping, GEOFOAM

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Multi-unit, Lévis, QC

Exterior foundation, XHD 200

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Multipurpose centre, Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce, QC

Exterior foundation, XHD 400

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Viaduct, Saint-Bernard-de-Michaudville, QC

Lightweight fill, GEOFOAM

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Sports complex, Longueuil, QC

Ice rink insulation, iFLEXFOAM

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Agricultural building, Valleyfield, QC

Under slab, iFLEXFOAM

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Load calculations were made by an independent engineering firm to recommend the right product according to quotation specifications. Each project should be validated by a specialized firm that will consider project specifics.


Parameters used in the calculation of the compressive strength required for the projects mentioned.

Slabs: Concrete weight: 24 kN/m3 • Concrete strength: 25 MPa • Soil capacity: 100 kPa • Insulation base layer: MG-20 type, 152 mm • Safety factor: 1.5
Foundations: Soil weight: 20 kN/m3 • Soil capacity: 100 kPa • Compaction sand: MG-112 type • Safety factor: 1.5

1 A thicker slab, the presence of reinforcing bars, or reinforcing bars that are bigger or closer will reduce insulation’s required compressive strength.


LEGAL NOTICE: The data contained in the present document are provided for guidance purposes only. They cannot serve as substitutes to the required calculations and to a validation of specific project conditions. Since government regulations and terms of use may vary not only from place to place but also over time, it is the responsibility of the customer to determine whether the product is suitable for the intended purpose and whether the workplace and practices are in accordance with applicable laws and legislation.

This web page contains no representations or warranties expressed or implied as to the information, data, or suggestions. Isolofoam Group expressly disclaims any liability for consequential damages, errors, or omissions arising from information contained herein.