Is Isopor® sustainable? Understand how the material is used in construction

Isopor® is increasingly sought after when it comes to sustainable construction . It is a 100% recyclable material made from plastic that has revolutionized the way construction projects are handled, making them cheaper and lighter. The material is still widely associated with food packaging, and this is indeed its most common use, but did you know that the construction industry is the largest consumer of Isopor® in the world ? It is also important to highlight a piece of information that few people know: Isopor® is a brand belonging to Knauf, a German company that pioneered the introduction of expanded polystyrene – EPS, the product’s real name – to Brazil.

How is Isopor® used in architecture?

Currently, several coatings are produced based on expanded polystyrene. "EPS Isopor® is increasingly playing a major role and providing innovative solutions at all stages of the construction process ", says Lucas Oliveira, project manager at Knauf.

The manufacture of expanded polystyrene for civil construction is different, and there are specific standards to determine its resistance and durability . "As it is a very flexible material in relation to its application, it can be manufactured with different density ranges, according to standard and with the correct specifications. There will be no problems", guarantees Lucas Oliveira.

Sustainable material

Isopor® is being considered as one of the favorite raw materials to replace other traditional materials. Starting with weight . Hardware, ceramic blocks and other traditional materials tend to increase the weight of the construction, while EPS is basically composed of plastic and air, and therefore, its lightness is superior. Lucas Oliveira also highlights a fundamental point about the material: the fact that it is fully recyclable . "The recycling process should be done like any other plastic material. Knauf Isopor® strongly encourages Reverse Logistics, through partnerships and projects (Associations such as NGOs), develops PEVs (voluntary collection points, has environmental seals, and uses discarded post-consumer Isopor® to produce recycled material. The biggest challenge is environmental education and awareness ", he explains. It is also worth noting that despite being based on plastic, the composition of expanded polystyrene has only 2% of the material in its composition , while 98% of its formula is air.