1. Core materials and structures
(1). Chemical Basis: The core of PIR is Polyisocyanurate, a rigid closed-cell foam plastic formed by the reaction of isocyanate with polyol under the action of a specific catalyst. Its chemical structure is more complex and stable than that of traditional polyurethane (PUR).
(2). Closed-cell structure: Inside the foam, there is an extremely high proportion (usually >90%) of tiny, uniform and non-interconnected closed bubbles. This structure is the key to PIR's outstanding thermal insulation performance and low water absorption rate.
2. Outstanding thermal insulation performance
(1). Extremely low thermal conductivity: PIR foam has one of the lowest thermal conductivities among rigid foams currently available on the market, typically ranging from 0.021 to 0.023 W/(m·K). This means that at the same thickness, PIR boards have a higher thermal resistance value (R value) than other common insulation materials such as EPS, XPS, and rock wool.
(2). Long-term stability: Its closed-cell structure and chemical stability ensure that the thermal conductivity changes very little over time, and the insulation performance is reliable for a long time.
3. Outstanding fire safety performance
(1). High flame retardancy grade: PIR material itself has excellent inherent flame retardancy. When exposed to fire, it can form a dense carbonized layer, effectively blocking the spread of flames and heat transfer.
(2). Low smoke and low toxicity: The amount of smoke produced during combustion is relatively small, and the toxicity is low, thus buying precious time for personnel evacuation and fire rescue.
(3). Meeting high standards: High-quality PIR insulation boards typically meet the fire protection standards of A-level (non-combustible materials) or B1-level (difficult-to-burn materials) (the specific grade depends on the product test report and local regulations), satisfying the strict building fire safety requirements.
4. Excellent physical and mechanical properties
(1). High compressive strength: The PIR foam core material itself has a relatively high strength. After being combined with a metal panel, the overall board has extremely strong compressive and bending resistance (the compressive strength usually reaches over 150 kPa), capable of withstanding significant loads and impacts, and is suitable for various load-bearing applications such as roofs, walls, and cold storage floors.
(2). Good dimensional stability: Under the influence of temperature changes and humidity, the dimensional change rate of PIR boards is very small, and they are not prone to shrinkage, expansion or deformation, ensuring construction quality and service life.
(3). Low water absorption rate/moisture-proof: The tight closed-cell structure effectively prevents the penetration of moisture and humidity, with an extremely low water absorption rate (usually <2%). Even after long-term use, the insulation performance will not be significantly reduced due to moisture absorption, making it particularly suitable for humid environments or cold storage applications.
(4). Light weight: While providing high strength and high insulation, PIR composite panels are relatively lightweight, making them easy to transport, handle and install.
5. Environmental Protection and Sustainability
(1). High efficiency and energy conservation: The excellent insulation performance directly leads to significant energy savings during the operation of buildings and reduces carbon emissions.
(2). Environmentally friendly foaming agents: Modern PIR production generally uses environmentally friendly foaming agents (such as cyclopentane, water or low GWP value HFOs) to reduce damage to the ozone layer and the impact of the greenhouse effect (usually free of CFCs or HCFCs).
(3). Long durability: Its excellent weather resistance, anti-aging property and moisture resistance ensure an extremely long service life, reducing the frequency of replacement and waste generation.
6. Convenient construction application
PIR insulation boards (especially metal-faced composite boards) are easy and quick to install, and can be connected by various methods such as locking, bolt connection or bonding.
The board size is regular, easy to cut and process, and suitable for complex architectural shapes.
Metal surface layers usually have excellent weather resistance and decorative properties, and can be directly used as the exposed surface of buildings, eliminating the need for additional decorative steps.
7. Main application fields
Building envelope: Roofs, exterior walls, and cold storage walls/roofs/floors of industrial and commercial buildings.
Cleanroom and constant temperature and humidity environment.
Cold chain logistics: refrigerated trucks, refrigerated containers, cold storage doors.
Industrial equipment: Insulation for pipelines, storage tanks and reaction vessels.
