Classification and characteristics of external wall insulation materials

External wall insulation materials can be divided into three categories based on their composition and performance: organic, inorganic, and composite, as follows:

1、 Organic insulation materials

Expanded polystyrene board (EPS board)

Features: Lightweight, low thermal conductivity (0.038-0.041W/(m · K)), moderate compressive strength, easy to cut for construction, but poor fire resistance (B1 level flame retardant).

Application: External wall insulation for ordinary residential and commercial buildings.

Extruded polystyrene board (XPS board)

Features: Closed cell structure, lower thermal conductivity (0.028-0.030W/(m · K)), strong water and moisture resistance, but poor breathability and easy detachment.

Application: Wet environments such as basements and cold storage.

Polyurethane (PU)

Features: The lowest thermal conductivity (0.018-0.024W/(m · K)), excellent insulation performance, but high cost.

Application: High end buildings and projects with high energy-saving requirements.

2、 Inorganic insulation materials

Rock wool board

Features: Class A non combustible, good fire resistance, high temperature resistance (above 600 ℃), but high water absorption and easy powdering.

Application: Places with high fire prevention requirements such as shopping malls and hospitals.

Glass wool

Features: A-class non combustible, sound-absorbing and noise reducing, but low compressive strength, requiring moisture-proof treatment.

Application: Industrial plants, soundproof buildings.

Foam cement/ceramic insulation board

Features: Fireproof, anti-aging, but high thermal conductivity (0.06-0.08W/(m · K)).

Application: Fire isolation tape, roof insulation.

3、 Composite insulation materials

Rubber powder polystyrene particle insulation slurry

Features: Organic inorganic composite, flame retardant (B1 level), flexible construction, but low strength.

Phenolic resin composite board

Characteristics: Flame retardant, low smoke, non-toxic, but prone to brittleness, domestic technology is not yet mature.

Vacuum insulation board (VIP board)

Features: Ultra thin and efficient (thermal conductivity 0.008W/(m · K)), but expensive and prone to damage.

Selection suggestions

Fire prevention priority: Choose A-grade materials such as rock wool and glass wool.

Wet environment: XPS board or polyurethane are recommended.

Economy: EPS board or rubber powder polystyrene particles have a higher cost-effectiveness.