Queensland Polystyrene Specialists is a 100% Australian-owned small business that has been proudly serving customers since 2004. Established in Brisbane, Queensland, we started as a modest custom packaging provider and have since grown into a trusted manufacturer of high-quality, custom-cut polystyrene products. Our factory in Brisbane is where we craft a wide variety of unique, precision-engineered solutions for our customers. As a local, family-owned business, we are deeply committed to supporting the Australian economy and providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients. When you choose to shop with us, you’re not only getting superior products but also supporting a small, local business that values quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re in need of packaging, insulation, or bespoke polystyrene products, we have the expertise and flexibility to meet your requirements. By choosing Queensland Polystyrene Specialists, you are partnering with a company that priorities innovation, sustainability, and the Australian community.

The Best Choice For Insulation

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, rigid foam material made from polystyrene beads that expand when heated, forming a network of small air pockets. It is commonly used for packaging, insulation, and as a construction material.

Expanded Polystyrene insulation offers excellent thermal resistance, helping to regulate temperature and keep spaces comfortable year-round. It’s moisture-resistant, making it ideal for areas like garages and sheds prone to dampness. The material is lightweight, durable, and cost-effective, making it easy to install and maintain. Additionally, it provides some soundproofing and is resistant to mould and mildew. Overall, polystyrene is a practical and budget-friendly option for improving energy efficiency and comfort in outbuildings.

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Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a highly effective thermal insulation material used in various applications due to its excellent insulating properties, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. Here’s a detailed look at the effectiveness of EPS as a thermal insulation material:

Thermal Insulation Properties

  1. High R-Value:
    • Thermal Resistance: EPS has a high R-value per inch, which measures its resistance to heat flow. Typically, EPS has an R-value of about 3.6 to 4.2 per inch of thickness, depending on its density. This makes it effective at reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency in buildings.
  2. Closed-Cell Structure:
    • Heat Retention: The closed-cell structure of EPS traps air within the cells, providing excellent thermal insulation. This structure minimizes the conduction of heat, making EPS a reliable insulator.
  3. Consistency:
    • Stable Performance: EPS maintains its thermal insulation properties over time. It does not settle or degrade significantly, ensuring long-term effectiveness.

The age of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) can impact its thermal performance, but generally, EPS maintains its insulating properties over a long period if it is properly installed and protected from physical and environmental damage. Here are some key points to consider regarding how age affects the thermal performance of EPS:

Long-Term Thermal Performance

  1. Stable R-Value:
    • Minimal Degradation: EPS typically exhibits minimal degradation in its R-value over time. Unlike some other insulation materials, EPS does not significantly settle or lose its insulating gas, ensuring stable thermal resistance.
    • Durability: If EPS is kept dry and free from physical damage, its thermal insulation properties remain largely consistent over the years.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is combustible and can burn when exposed to sufficient heat and flame. However, the flammability of EPS and its behavior during burning depend on several factors, including the presence of fire retardants and the conditions under which it is exposed to fire.

Flammability of EPS

  1. Combustible Material:
    • Burning Characteristics: EPS is made from polystyrene, a type of plastic, which is inherently combustible. When ignited, EPS can burn and release heat, smoke, and potentially toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and styrene monomer.
  2. Ignition Temperature:
    • Heat Requirement: EPS typically ignites at temperatures around 490°F to 610°F (about 255°C to 320°C). Once ignited, it can sustain a flame and contribute to the spread of fire if not properly managed.

Yes, Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is subject to Australian Standards, which ensure its safe and effective use in various applications, particularly in building and construction. These standards cover aspects such as manufacturing, performance, fire safety, and installation.

Key Australian Standards Relevant to EPS:

  1. AS 1366.3 – Rigid Cellular Plastics Sheets for Thermal Insulation:
    • Scope: This standard specifies requirements for rigid cellular plastic sheets used for thermal insulation, including EPS.
    • Performance Criteria: It includes requirements for thermal resistance, compressive strength, dimensional stability, and water absorption.
  2. AS 1530 – Methods for Fire Tests on Building Materials, Components, and Structures:
    • AS 1530.3: This part covers the early fire hazard properties of materials and includes testing for ignitability, flame propagation, heat release, and smoke development.
    • AS 1530.4: This part addresses fire-resistance tests of elements of construction.
  3. AS/NZS 4859.1 – Materials for the Thermal Insulation of Buildings:
    • Scope: This standard sets out the requirements for materials used in the thermal insulation of buildings, including EPS, focusing on performance metrics such as thermal resistance (R-value), durability, and material properties.
  4. AS 1366.1 – Rigid Cellular Plastics Sheets for Thermal Insulation – Rigid Cellular Polyurethane (RC/PUR):
    • Related Standard: Although focused on rigid polyurethane, it provides complementary guidelines applicable to rigid plastic insulation materials like EPS.

INSULSATION

ARTS, CRAFTS, PHOTOGRAPHY

FORMWORK

WAFFLE PODS

How to Recycle Polystyrene:

In Brisbane, polystyrene is not accepted in curbside recycling bins, but there are a few options for proper disposal. Some of Brisbane’s Resource Recovery Centres (like at Murarrie and Geebung) may accept clean, uncontaminated polystyrene, so it’s a good idea to contact them ahead of time to confirm. Additionally, some local retailers like Woolworths may have collection bins for clean polystyrene packaging, especially from items like white goods. You can also check the Recycling Near You website by Planet Ark to find drop-off points or special recycling events in Brisbane.

If recycling options are not available or convenient, polystyrene must go into your general waste bin, as it is non-biodegradable and will end up in landfill. To minimize environmental impact, it’s important to ensure the polystyrene is clean and free of contaminants before attempting to recycle it. In some cases, businesses or specialized services may accept larger quantities for commercial recycling, so it’s worth asking around. Alternatively, you can repurpose polystyrene for DIY projects as a short-term solution.

Polystyrene Drop Off Locations:

Woolworths or Bunnings stores, have drop-off stations for polystyrene recycling. You can also search for any upcoming community recycling events through Brisbane City Council or the Recycling Near You website to see if there are temporary collection points for polystyrene near Rocklea.

  • Versatile
  • 100% Recyclable
  • Moisture resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Super Strong
  • Fire Retardant
  • Durable
  • Easy to Install
  • Non-allergenic
  • Highly Resistant to Mildew

Expanded Polystyrene is made up of approximately 96% – 99% of air! And it is 100% recyclable! There are no CFCs, HFC’s or ozone-depleting substances involved in the manufacture of EPS.

The many uses are ENDLESS! If you have an idea we will help you make it a reality! We are committed to working with you to deliver high-quality creative solutions.

The most versatile, strong, and cost-effective insulation material available. Polystyrene solutions are inexpensive compared to alternatives and continue to save you money while in use.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) consists of 99% air and 4% – 1% polystyrene. Because of it, cellular structure EPS will not settle over time. EPS used and installed correctly does not deteriorate with age.

Our unique and custom cut solutions are used for:

  • Wall insulation
  • Roof Insulation
  • Shed Insulation
  • Garage Door Insulation
  • Caravan Insulation
  • Patio Insulation
  • Spa Cover Insulation
  • Cold Room Wall Insulation
  • Polystyrene Packaging
  • Art and craft
  • Sign writing/ lettering
Shed Insulation

At the beginning of 2020 Queensland Polystyrene Specialists (QPS) has been recognized and approved by AUSowned. AUSowned has been established to help support Australian Owned Business by verifying that they are Australian Owned Companies.

The star rating on Queensland Polystyrene Specialist’s badge displays what level of Australian Owned Company that they are. Therefore, three stars mean that QPS is 100% Australian owned, their products and services are conducted in Australia. Furthermore, it also means that Queensland Polystyrene Specialists has no sneaky tricks and have the correct tax paid in Australia, also that none of their profits are sent overseas

For more information about AUSowned http://www.AusOwned.com.au