EPS vs. Rock Wool Insulation

EPS vs. Rock Wool Insulation

——In-Depth Comparison for Thermal Efficiency

1 Material Properties 

EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)

Low Thermal Conductivity: EPS has a thermal conductivity of 0.033–0.038 W/(m·K), making it highly efficient for lightweight insulation. Its lightweight nature (15–30 kg/m³) suits modular designs like container homes or prefab villas.

Moisture Sensitivity: Absorbs water easily, requiring waterproof coatings in humid climates (e.g., tropical regions).

Flammability: Requires fire retardants to meet safety standards, but melts under high heat, releasing toxic fumes.

Rock Wool

Fire Resistance: Made from molten basalt, it withstands temperatures over 1000°C, making it ideal for fire-prone areas like high-rise buildings or kitchen containers.

Sound Absorption: Fibrous structure reduces noise transfer, perfect for cafes, offices, or bars in noisy urban areas.

Density & Weight: Heavier (60–200 kg/m³), increasing structural support needs but offering durability.

2 Safety & Health

Fire Safety:

EPS requires chemical additives to achieve fire resistance (Class B1), but remains vulnerable to melting. Suitable for temporary structures like emergency shelters where fire risk is low.

Rock Wool is naturally fireproof (Class A1), used in steel construction or modular high-rises for enhanced safety.

Environmental Impact:

EPS production involves petroleum-based chemicals, and recycling is challenging. Burning releases CO and black smoke.

Rock Wool is recyclable and made from abundant minerals, though its manufacturing consumes high energy (1400°C melting).

3 Cost & Longevity

Initial Cost:

EPS is 3–5 times cheaper than rock wool (e.g., 30/m³vs. 80/m³). Ideal for budget projects like low-cost prefab homes or temporary site offices.

Rock Wool’s higher cost is offset by durability (50+ years) and reduced insurance premiums in fire-prone zones.

Long-Term Savings:

Rock Wool’s thermal stability lowers heating/cooling costs, especially in extreme climates (e.g., Middle Eastern porta cabins).

EPS may degrade faster in humid or high-heat environments, requiring replacements.

4 Installation & Adaptability

Ease of Installation:

EPS is lightweight and easy to cut, ideal for DIY projects like L-shaped container houses or cafe booths.

Rock Wool requires protective gear (gloves, masks) due to fiber dust and often needs metal framing, increasing labor costs.

Structural Compatibility:

EPS works well with lightweight foundations (e.g., container house foundations) due to minimal load.

Rock Wool suits heavy-duty structures like pre-engineered steel buildings or modular high-rises.

5 Climate & Application Suitability

Humid/Tropical Regions:

Rock Wool’s water resistance (<1% absorption) prevents mold, ideal for coastal vacation homes or Southeast Asian portable cabins.

EPS needs moisture barriers, limiting its use in flood-prone areas like emergency housing.

High-Temperature Zones:

Rock Wool excels in kitchens, industrial sites, or container restaurants where fire safety is critical.

EPS is avoided in high-heat areas due to melting risks.

6 Aesthetic & Design Flexibility

EPS: Easily molded into curves or custom shapes for modern prefab homes or container pools.

Rock Wool: Used in acoustic panels for stylish interiors (e.g., container bars or office ceilings).

7 Sustainability Trends

Green Certifications: Rock Wool is favored in eco-friendly projects due to recyclability.

EPS in Emerging Markets: Popular in cost-driven regions like India or China for low-cost housing.

Decision Guide

Budget & Short-Term Use → EPS (e.g., emergency shelters, construction offices).

Fire Safety & Durability → Rock Wool (e.g., high-rise modular buildings, industrial kitchens).

Humid/Noisy Environments → Rock Wool (e.g., coastal vacation homes, urban offices).

Lightweight & Creative Designs → EPS (e.g., poolside villas, curved facades).

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