Polyethylene vs. Polyurethane vs. Polyisocyanurate

Polyethylene vs. Polyurethane vs. Polyisocyanurate

The roof is a crucial element of any building, whether it be commercial, industrial, or residential. In a country facing extreme weather, the importance of selecting the right roofing materials cannot be overstated. The Philippines, positioned near the equator, struggles with the sun's overwhelming heat, a problem that has been exacerbated by global warming. As a result, many people choose to construct their buildings with effective ventilation and insulation to combat these challenges.

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Insulated roof panels are highly recommended due to their many benefits. If you're not well-versed in the various insulation materials available, selecting the right one can be daunting. This article will explore three popular insulation options used in roofing: polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), and polyisocyanurate (PIR).

Understanding Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene, or PE, is a commonly used insulating material. It is available in both solid and foam forms. The solid variation is often utilized as electric insulation due to its high dielectric constant. Conversely, the foam version is ideal for thermal insulation. PE is recognized for its excellent moisture resistance, making it a staple in damp environments where its performance can be maximized. Additionally, it is durable, flexible, and has high UV resistance.

When employed for thermal insulation, PE foam can be injected into roofs, walls, floors, and air ducts. It is usually covered with a foil laminate to enhance its ability to reflect heat. Despite its foam nature, PE exhibits remarkable moisture resistance, which makes it perfect for areas likely to encounter water. Installation is a breeze since it often comes with an adhesive backing.

Made from thermoplastic resin, PE can be melted down and recycled into other plastic products.

Exploring Polyurethane (PU)

Polyurethane or PU is another well-regarded insulation material. It is a thermoset resin, formed by mixing two different reagents in a carefully measured ratio to create a chemical chain that constitutes the plastic. These reagents include isocyanate (MDI) and polyol. PU in its foam form is denser and more elastic than other foams, making it popular for both furniture and insulation applications.

When used for insulation in buildings, PU is a low-density and highly cross-linked plastic. It boasts extremely low thermal conductivity, which results in reduced energy loss and lower carbon dioxide emissions. PU foam can be applied by spraying it into cavities, allowing it to create airtight seals even in the tiniest spaces. Notably, PU does not retain moisture and can be utilized on any surface, making it a versatile insulator in construction.

What is Polyisocyanurate (PIR)?

Polyisocyanurate, or PIR, is a newer version of PU. It results from a reaction between isocyanate (MDI) and polyol, resulting in a thermoset plastic foam characterized by strong ring-like structures. Although PIR may not penetrate cavities as effectively as PU when injected, it excels in preventing fire, moisture, and smoke, thus making it a superior insulation option. Thanks to its superior thermal qualities, PIR requires only half the thickness compared to other insulation materials to achieve the same insulation performance.

Unlike PU, which is generally applied by spraying, PIR is typically available in rigid panels.

Comparing the Three Insulation Materials

While polyethylene, polyurethane, and polyisocyanurate share some similarities, notable differences exist among them. All three types provide insulation and can be found in foam form, which allows them to be injected into cavities. Additionally, they all exhibit moisture resistance.

However, in terms of structural protection, they vary. PE lacks fire and certain chemical resistance, which PU and PIR provide in greater amounts. Moreover, PIR excels in fire, moisture, and smoke resistance compared to PU, making it the most advanced and, consequently, the priciest insulation option available.

Choosing the Right Insulation Material for Roofing Panels

Now that you understand the common insulation materials used for roofing, you might wonder which is best suited for your needs. Since PE is not fire-resistant, it is not fully recommended. The decision generally circulates around PU and PIR. Given PIR's higher cost due to its advantages over PU, many find PU to be the more practical choice.

PU Panels as Roofing Materials

Union Galvasteel Corporation provides roof insulation solutions in the Philippines, specifically incorporating Duratherm, which includes Roofing PU Panel and Standard PU Panels. These panels are constructed with a PU insulation layer placed between two structural skin surfaces. Generally, the outer skin for roofing panels is made of metal or steel, while standard panels have both inner and outer skins of steel. In addition to their durability, PU panels are user-friendly and facilitate quicker installations, requiring less labor. Our PU insulated sandwich panels come pre-painted in various colors and profiles.

UGC is a leading manufacturer and distributor of pre-painted roofing materials, with the most expansive and varied distribution network in the industry, including roll-forming plants, warehouses, and sales offices strategically located throughout the nation. For assistance, reach us through our website or call us at (02) -; -; (049) 545- to 86 or (Globe) and (Smart).

bestlink products are exported globally across various industries with a commitment to quality. We strive to offer our customers more high-value-added products, working collaboratively to engineer a better future.

Understanding Polyethylene Foam Insulation

Our PE FOAM products are manufactured from high-grade PE resins through a continuous extrusion process. Characterized by a closed-cell structure, they exhibit exceptional attributes such as low thermal conductivity, high moisture and chemical resistance, and impressive rebound resilience. These products are resilient, lightweight, flexible, non-irritating, and easy to cut and bond.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1. What thickness/type of P.E FOAM do you recommend? Why?
A: A thickness of 10mm to 15mm with double-sided pure aluminum foil is ideal as it provides the best value for your money!

2. What's the difference between single and double-sided aluminum foil/film?
A: Double-sided aluminum film performs better by offering a 'second reflector', providing two shiny surfaces. Its low emittance surface releases very little heat into the adjacent air space.

3. What's the difference between pure aluminum foil and aluminized film?
A: Pure aluminum foil has higher reflectance and lower emittance compared to aluminized film, thus ensuring superior performance.

4. What is the maximum serviceable temperature of P.E FOAM?
A: The maximum serviceable temperature is 92°C, with a melting point of 110°C and a flash point above 232°C.

5. Will P.E FOAM melt under the roof's extreme summer heat?
A: No, P.E FOAM remains stable up to 70°C, while summer temperatures generally peak at around 40°C.

6. What is the lifespan of P.E FOAM?
A: If installed correctly, P.E FOAM can last over 10 years.

7. Can I paint P.E FOAM?
A: Probably not, as P.E FOAM's anti-static properties repel dust and paint easily.

8. Can P.E FOAM be used for soundproofing?
A: Yes, it can be effectively installed within walls to prevent sound transfer.

TECHNICAL DATA

P.E FOAM serves as outstanding thermal insulation for roofs and walls as well as cushioning for packaging products, particularly for electronic components sensitive to static discharge.

Sizes:
3mm x 1m x 100m
5mm x 1m x 50m
10mm x 1m x 50m
12mm x 1m x 50m
15mm x 1m x 50m
20mm x 1m x 50m up to 50mm thick

PROPERTIES VALUES

Physical State: Flexible Closed PE

Odor: Neutral

Density: 1.3 - 1.8 PCF

Melting Point: N/A, Thermoset

Color: White, Gray & Pink

Water Absorption @10°C: 0.02% by Volume

Thermal Conductivity @40°C: 0.035 W/mk

Surface Resistance * Pink: 10-11

Flame Spread Index *Gray: 45

Smoke Developed *Gray: 60

Burning Classification: Class B

Tensile Stress (psi) *Gray: 39

Elongation (%) *Gray: 111.79%

Tear Resistance (lb/in) *Gray: 1.02kg/cm

STANDARD PE FOAM SIZE (+1 TOLERANCE VALUE)

If you'd like to learn more, please visit our website Polyethylene Foam Foil (ru, fr, pt).