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Bauder launches BauderECO FF biomass-based polyisocyanurate insulation
Written by Global Insulation staff
25 September 2024
Germany: Bauder has launched BauderECO FF, an 80% biomass polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation for flat roofs. Construction Management News has reported that the product offers 75% reduced CO2 compared with conventional PIR insulation, and is compatible with the Bauder Total Roof System and Thermofol warm roof waterproofing products.
Fraunhofer Institute of Applied Polymer Research develops fungal insulation
Written by Global Insulation staff
25 September 2024
Germany: Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research have developed a novel insulation from fungal mycelium. Professional Engineering News has reported that the materials are naturally woven by the mycelium filaments by which fungi spread. Researchers successfully varied fungus type, feed and environmental conditions to produce a range of performance characteristics comparable to conventional expanded polystyrene (EPS) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation. Additionally, the materials offer high fire resistance and moisture regulation.
Austrotherm, Hirsch Porozell, Steinbacher Dämmstoff and others participate in EPS recycling pilot
Written by Global Insulation staff
13 September 2024
Austria: Multiple actors across the Austrian insulation, construction and environmental management sectors have launched a nationwide expanded polystyrene (EPS) recycling pilot. Initiative leader Fraunhofer Austria Research aims for the project, entitled EPSolutely, to establish a circular economy for EPS insulation based on its on-site collection service. Participants include insulation producers Austrotherm, Hirsch Porozell and Steinbacher Dämmstoff. The Kleine Zeitung newspaper has reported that the service provides reuseable bags and manages workflows via an app. The pilot will conclude in December 2024, with the outcomes informing a possible industrial-scale roll-out. Insulation producers have reportedly invested in new separation equipment to meet the requirements of the materials.
Steinbacher Dämmstoff head of research and development Maximilian Bernard said "The biggest challenge is the varying quality of the material delivered. The differences range from different colours to different raw materials such as extruded polystyrene (XPS) to various foreign substances such as screws and plaster residues. Despite these differences, a consistent quality of the new EPS panels must be guaranteed."
Knauf and Knauf Insulation launch knauf.com
Written by Global Insulation
13 September 2024
World: Germany-based gypsum wallboard and plaster producer Knauf and its insulation subsidiary Knauf Insulation have consolidated their online presence with a new website, knauf.com. The site offers access to the group’s entire product range. Knauf said that the shift aims to help customers to increase their productivity.
Knauf Ibérica marketing and technical director Pablo Maroto said "This new platform reinforces our commitment to innovation and facilitates access to our solutions at a global level."
North American polyurethane market grows in 2023
Written by Global Insulation staff
10 September 2024
North America: The Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) recorded total polyurethane (PU) production of 4.1Mt in North America in 2023. US Political and Economic Organizations News has reported that applications contributing towards the growth included continuous insulation and spray foam for air barriers.
Director Jason Sloan noted market challenges due to ‘shifts in demand and availability for raw materials,’ but said that producers were adapting to the market dynamics.