www.foamglas.se

Insulation systemfor Façades

Contents

Aesthetics and protection 4

Warm façades 6

Ventilated rainscreen cladding 13

Cavity wall insulation 21

Building physics 24

Passive fire protection 30

Economy 33

Excellent ecological profile 35

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Aesthetics and protection

The façade of any building is far more than its aesthetic“face” – it fulfils various functions, all of equal impor-tance to the structure as a whole. Primarily it needs toprotect the fabric of the building from the effects ofweather – cold, heat and rain. It also plays a key part insound proofing the building and providing fire protec-tion. Thermal protection is, of course, the most essentialperformance. FOAMGLAS® ensures that all the demandsmade on an insulation material are fulfilled with a per-formance that remains totally effective for the lifetime ofthe building.

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1 Warm façade on groundfloor, Altersheim amNeumarkt, Winterthur

2 Cavity wall insulation, cantonalschool “Luegeten”, Zug

3 Ventilated rainscreencladding, Gurten Kulm –extension of the restaurantwing

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FOAMGLAS®

the ultimate insulation

FOAMGLAS® cellular glass insulation isunrivalled in performance whateverthe building system. Cellular glass isfoamed glass and constitutes of mil-lions of closed, gas filled glass cells,which provide superior insulation char-acteristics. Due to the all glass cellgeometry, the “vapour-control layer”is already built-in.

FOAMGLAS® is water- and vapour-proof,which means it is totally impervious toany form of moisture. Its high com-pressive strength makes the insulationresistant to compression – even underpermanent loading. Other outstandingphysical qualities of the glass materialare: non-combustibility, dimensionalstability (it cannot shrink or swell), it isrot-, insect-, vermin- and acid-proof (itwill not support the growth of mould).FOAMGLAS® is environmentally sound(from manufacture to disposal) and issuited for all types of façade. The ther-mal insulation value remains asinstalled, for the lifetime of the build-ing. The importance of the insulationand its performance cannot be over-stated and is the key to an effectiveand financially efficient façade system.

FOAMGLAS®

the ideal façade solution

Materials, structures, colours and shapes:Every type of imaginative façade canbe combined with FOAMGLAS® insula-tion. The FOAMGLAS® solution enablesarchitect’s schemes to be realised andadds to the structural stability of thewhole cladding concept.

Independent of the wall- or cladding-system: Cellular glass insulation ensuresexacting insulation values and the avoid-ance of cold bridging with a particularlythin façade structure. Nearly all façadematerials are suited.

Warm façades: natural stone,clinker brick, metal, glass

Ventilated façades (curtain wall):stone, timber, metal, glass, acrylicglass, fibre cement, wire mesh,trellis for greenery

Cavity wall insulation: brick, lime-sand brick, exposed concrete

FOAMGLAS®

clear advantages

For all demands: Whatever theweathering and temperature condi-tions a building may be exposed to,FOAMGLAS® protects the buildingstructure and optimises the energyneeds for heating or air-conditioning.

Cost-efficiency: FOAMGLAS®-insula-tion systems convince the client for theirdurability. In many a façade rehabilita-tion the existent FOAMGLAS® insulationwas found unchanged after 40 years ofuse and could be left in place.

Safety: FOAMGLAS® proves to be the“safety insulation”. This also means“fire safety”. Cellular glass insulation isclassified as non-combustible to EuroClass A1 – no contribution to fire.

Ecology: FOAMGLAS® is ecologicallysound and has no environmentalhealth hazards. Due to its outstandingservice life and overall environmentalsustainability, FOAMGLAS® cellular glassis best-rated in comparative analysis ofenvironmental product declaration.

1 FOAMGLAS® Boards andslabs.

2 For every type of imaginativefaçade, Art Museum‘Kunsthaus Graz’ (Austria).

3 Durability is the key to cost-efficiency, office building inZurich.

4 Protection against heat andcold, Glacier 3000 cable carstation.

5 Optimal energy efficiency,house designed to SwissMinergy Standard, Mollis.

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Architect Feusi & Partner AG, PfäffikonConstruction 1999FOAMGLAS® applications Façade insulation, about 300 m2, T4+ slabs, 120 mmthick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding at ground floor level Brick slips, 15 mm thick, dimensions150 x 30 mm, joints filled, adhesively bonded to the FOAMGLAS® insulation.

Warm façade

Extension of Cultural Centre, Pfäffikon SZ

In some cases masonry is not used asfaçade cladding for cost reasons. Amore affordable, but similar aestheticsolution, is possible using brick slips,which can be adhesively bonded to theFOAMGLAS® insulation, forming a warmfaçade. FOAMGLAS® is a dimensionallystable, vapour-proof and incompress-ible insulation, that is ideally suited forthis type of façade. For this applicationa specific adhesive has been developedthat avoids efflorescence and washoutin the long-term. After five years thefaçade is as new!

Warm façade – along-term effectiveconstruction savescostswww.foamglas.com

Façade structure at groundfloor level

1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ slabs,

adhesively bonded3 Clinker quarter bricks,

adhesively bonded

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Architect Ph. Brühwiler, Architekt BSA /SIA, ZugConstruction 2005FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 1,620 m2, T4+ slabs, 140mm thick, adhesively bonded and mechanically fixed to the structural wallFinish Stone quarter bricks, type “Spacatelli”, 15 mm thick, 40 mm large,dry joints, adhesively bonded to the FOAMGLAS® insulation layer.

Warm façade

Residential building, Waldheimstrasse, Zug

When architects are looking for aes-thetic quality, it is the chance to explorenew system solutions. Direct bondingof natural stone quarter bricks (Brand“Spacatelli”) is only feasible, if thebearing layer provides high compres-sive strength, dimensional stability anda damp-proof course. FOAMGLAS®

insulation fulfils these demands andallows for a wall concept free fromcold bridging. This type of wall struc-ture is appreciated for its simplicity anda thin construction.

New system solutiongoes in for estheticqualitywww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation3 Bonding, float and buttering

method (wet on wet)4 Natural stone quarter bricks

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Architect D. Bötschi, Architekt ETH/SIA, EgnachConstruction 2003FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 450 m2, T4+ slabs, 120 mmthick, adhesively bonded with surface coating applied to the insulationFaçade cladding Concrete slabs with sandstone finish, 50 mm thick, dimensions800 x 600 and 800 x 200 mm, mechanically fixed with single structural fasteners

Warm façade

‘Schweizerhaus’ building, Romanshorn

When façade claddings are inclinedinwards they impose high demands onthe thermal insulation applied to thestructure. Water infiltration will occurand only the use of additional sealingmethods or thermal insulation whichis water-tight and totally resistant tomoisture will protect the structurefrom becoming wet. FOAMGLAS® slabinsulation – together with its surfacecoating – will prevent water inflowthrough the joints from reaching thestructure. No membrane is required.Protection against heat loss and theeffects of moisture is ensured in thelong-term.

Protection againstcold and moisture inthe long-termwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete load bearing

structure, inclination 5°2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 Surface coating applied to

the insulation4 Prefabricated concrete slabs

with sandstone finish,mechanically fixed throughthe insulation into thesubstructure

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Architect Rüssli Architekten AG, LucerneConstruction 2002FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 175 m2, T4+ slabs, 120 mmthick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Folded metal cladding, warm façade (without ventilationspace), fasteners /cleats are fixed to PC fixing plates (or claw plates)

Warm façade

Apartment house Steinhofstrasse, Lucerne

As FOAMGLAS® is vapour-tight foldedmetal cladding can be installed withoutthe need for a ventilation space. Thenumber of elements needed is min-imised, expensive and complicated sub-constructions such as additional lath-ing, roof boarding as a bearing coursefor the standing seam and ventilationslots are not needed. This saves costsand the construction thickness isreduced to a minimum. Simplicity andgain on the interior volume make theFOAMGLAS® solution a most economicsystem.

Simplicity andeconomy due toreduced numberof elements andgain of spacewww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete load bearing

structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 PC fixing plates (claw plates)

fixed to the structure andcleats for fixing the foldedmetal cladding

4 Folded metal cladding(standing seam sheets)

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Architect Architekturbüro Stutz und Bolt, ZurichConstruction 2000FOAMGLAS® application Insulation of walls at ground floor level,about 200 m2, type T4+, 100 mm thick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding “Basaltina” natural stone cladding, 30 mm thick, jointed,adhesively bonded to the FOAMGLAS® insulation, structural fasteners for thestone cladding

Warm façade

Retirement home ‘Am Neumarkt’, Winterthur

A first concern for the architect was toaccomplish a cubic and solid design forthe ground floor and the upper floors.The use of closed joints on the stonecladding was one of the constructionoptions. Use of FOAMGLAS® insulation,due to its imperviousness to water andwater vapour, eliminates the risks ofinterstitial condensation, allowing stonecladding to be adhesively bonded to itssurface. Structural fasteners addition-ally fix the stone cladding. No ventila-tion space behind the cladding is neededand the stone cladding joints can betuckpointed. The façade system – cou-pled with the compact FOAMGLAS®

installation method – is designed as asolid and durable structure.

Compact structuredue to fully bondedsystemwww.foamglas.com

Structure of ground floorenclosure walls

1 Concrete load bearingstructure

2 Structural anchors for thestone cladding

3 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,adhesively bonded

4 Surface filler coating5 Stone cladding, adhesively

bonded

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Architect Egli Rohr Partner Architekten, Baden /DättwilConstruction 2005–2006FOAMGLAS® applications Façade insulation, about 175 m2, T4+ slabs, 140 mmthick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Glass mosaic

Warm façade

Seefeld College, Spreitenbach

The performance of this type of warmfaçade meets the highest designrequirements: it had to maximise theenergy efficiency of the building.Unlike conventional bearing layers, theFOAMGLAS®-plus system provides fullprotection against heat loss. Moreoverfor the walls on the ground floor level,the insulation should be impact-proofand fire resistant. FOAMGLAS® cellularglass insulation provides protection forthese effects. The insulation is impervi-ous to water and water vapour; it has nocapillarity and is vermin proof. In spite ofa rather thin wall structure, excellentthermal performance can be achieved.The system allows for an appreciablegain on volume. FOAMGLAS® has excel-lent performance in the long-term. Theclient’s demand for a durable solutioncould be accommodated with this sys-tem.

Safety and aesthetics– a new systembecomes the thingwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Structural concrete wall2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 PC metal plates (claw plates)

with structural fastener4 AQUAPANEL® Outdoor

cement board5 Basecoat mortar with glass

fabric6 Glass mosaic, bonded

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Architect Wethli Architekten, RüschlikonRetrofit works 2002FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 1330 m2 (15 832 prefabri-cated pieces), T4+ slabs, 80 mm thick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Enamelled glass, additional insulation and cladding wasadhered to the existing structure

Warm façade

Office building Förrlibuckstrasse, Zurich

Because of the excellent conditionof existing FOAMGLAS® façade insula-tion – installed 40 years ago – theupgrade to current thermal insulationstandards could be achieved by addingan insulation layer. More than 15 000FOAMGLAS® pieces were prefabricatedand customised to fit between the newwindow supports, which were added

on top of the existing window frames.As the elements of the existing façade(including thermal insulation) were reuti-lised for the new façade, expenses onthe waste disposal costs were saved andthe initial architectural style of the build-ing could be preserved and enhancedwith a minimal financial investment.

Cost-efficient thermalinsulation upgradedue to sustainablearchitecturewww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Existing window support

(old, 1962)2 FOAMGLAS® (old, 1962)3 New window support

structure (retrofit 2002)4 New FOAMGLAS® insulation,

adhesively bonded(retrofit 2002)

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Architect BSS Architekten, SchwyzConstruction 2003FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 3,755 m2, type T4+ slabs,30–120 mm thick, adhesively bonded and surface coating with reinforcingglass meshFaçade cladding Natural stone slabs, type “Spluga Verda”, 30 /40 mm thick,open joints, structural fixing by single structural fasteners

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Banc ‘Schwyzer Kantonalbank’, Schwyz

Bank clients prefer façade solutions thatgive a long service life. Natural stone isan ideal cladding material where ahigh quality façade is demanded. Toensure lifetime performance of thefaçade not only the outer skin needs tobe high-end, but also the supportstructures and the thermal insulationlayer should meet the quality demands.The FOAMGLAS® system provides highfunctional performance and is unaf-fected by driving rain and water vapour.It meets all the requirements of thistype of high quality façade system andwill perform for the lifetime of thebuilding.

Stable value andoutstanding servicelife using top-qualitymaterialswww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 Surface coating with

reinforcing glass mesh4 Structural fixing to the

concrete structure5 Structural stone slabs

“Spluga Verda”

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Architect Büro B, Architekten und Planer, BerneRetrofit works 1999FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 450 m2, T4+ slabs, 100 mmthick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Timber and aluminium slats, substructure timber or aluminium,visible fasteners for fixing the slats to the substructure

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Gurten Kulm restaurant destination, extension of dining hall, Berne

Timber and aluminium slats are oftenused to create the appearance andeffect of cladding; they have open jointsand are carried on a substructure oftimber or aluminium, allowing ingressof moisture. The use of FOAMGLAS®

insulation allows for large spacingbetween the slats and ensures thatrainwater inflow through the openjoints of the cladding will not affectthe insulation performance and leadto its deterioration. The insulation isfinished with a surface filler. The wallconstruction will remain dry ensuringthat insulation values are maintained.Technical and aesthetic design require-ments are met.

Stylish appearanceand long-termperformancewww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete load bearing

structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 Surface filler finish4 Metal substructure5 Timber cladding

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Architect Celoria Aldo, Morbio InferioreConstruction 2003FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 150 m2,FOAMGLAS® WALL BOARD, 80 mm thick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Copper shingle cladding

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Casa Travella, Castel S. Pietro

Casa Travella’s outstanding landmarkis the upper floor façade with coppershingle cladding. Copper shingles donot only emphasise the unique appear-ance of the building, they also standfor all-weather performance and longservice life. In combination withFOAMGLAS® insulation, which per-forms for the lifetime of the building, adurable, value-preserving façade archi-tecture is provided. In case of rainwa-ter inflow through the seams, the con-struction will not be affected. Cellularglass insulation forms an effective bar-rier against water ingress and watervapour.

FOAMGLAS® – allweather insulationwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete load bearing

structure2 FOAMGLAS® WALL BOARD

insulation, 80 mm thick,adhesively bonded

3 Support lathing, cross lathing4 Copper shingle cladding

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Architect Halter Architekten AG, RapperswilConstruction 2003FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 600 m2, T4+ slabs,160 mm thick, adhesively bonded, and paint finishFaçade cladding ESG glass cladding, 10 mm thick, with silk-screen printing –discharge print imitation, metal substructure fixed to a structurally fixedsupporting plate, glass cladding with visible fixing points

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Schwyzer Kantonalbank, Pfäffikon

Glass façades impose extreme loads onthe substructure and in particular onthe thermal insulation behind it. Dueto retained heat, extremely high tem-peratures are created and these canrapidly drop when rain occurs. As aconsequence condensation can formin the façade structure. FOAMGLAS®

insulation is impervious to water andwater vapour and will not allow deteri-oration from condensation. It hasdimensional stability and resistance toexpansion or swelling even undersevere temperature fluctuations andmoisture conditions.

Dimensional stabilityand resistance toexpansion or swellingunder temperaturefluctuations andmoisture conditionswww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 Paint finish4 Supporting plate, mechanically

fixed to the structure5 Glass cladding

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Architect Peter Cook + Colin Fournier, LondonConstruction 2002 /2003FOAMGLAS® application Roof and façade insulation, special shaped roof,about 3670 m2, T4+ slabs, 160 mm thick, adhesively bonded, mechanicallyfixed in partsFaçade cladding Tinted and open-jointed acryclic panels, visible fixing pointson the cladding elements

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Art museum Kunsthaus Graz (“Bubble”, “Blue Bubble”), Graz (Austria)

Imaginative structure– weathertight systemwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Synthetic membrane

(bitumen compatiblewaterproofing sheet)

2 Supporting framework,primary steel truss

3 Steel decking4 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

160 mm thick5 Under-façade BIX lightning6 Sprinkler nozzle7 Support for panels8 Open-jointed acrylic panels

This special shaped building is a mostdemanding construction with a com-plex structure. On this imaginativestructure, the external panels are ofaesthetic value only; the open jointsprovide no protection against drivingrain or environmental conditions. Thelayers beneath the panels must fulfilthe function of bothweather-tightness andinsulation of the build-ing. FOAMGLAS® appliedbelow the membraneeffectively meets boththese demands and theclamping system ensuresthe minimum of coldbridging in the walland roof constructions.Independent of the typeand shape of load-bear-ing structure – concreteor steel deck, flat orcurved – cellular glassinsulation is easily cut toshape and will perfectlyadhere, with a maximum

of contact surface, to the structuralwall / roof. Proud edges on the insula-tion can easily be smoothed with agrinding tool. With FOAMGLAS® insu-lation all design options are possible.

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Architect Architekturbüro R. Niederberger, HergiswilConstruction 1995FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 700 m2 of FOAMGLAS®

WALL BOARD, 100 mm thick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Eternit cladding – small size fibre cement tiles, timber subcon-struction support lathing /cross lathing, secret-fixing of the cladding tiles

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Cheese factory Windleten, Ennetmoos

FOAMGLAS® is non-combustible andunaffected by water or water vapour.An added advantage for cladding andrainscreen systems with ventilation is,that totally inorganic cellular glass isvermin and mould proof. No damageis caused to the insulation or systemby rodents, insects, birds, etc, asFOAMGLAS® provides no source offood or nesting material. This meansthat all underground structures canalso be insulated without any risks ofdamage.

Best protectionagainst rodents,insects and mouldwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® WALL BOARD

insulation, adhesively bonded3 Timber support structure (lath-

ing and cross-lathing)4 Eternit cladding – fibre cement

tiles

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Architect Theo Hotz AG, ZurichConstruction 2005FOAMGLAS® application Façade insulation, about 630 m2, T4+ slabs,100 mm thick, adhesively bondedFaçade cladding Wire mesh

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Seewasserwerk (Water supply works), Männedorf

See-through wire mesh as the externalskin is of aesthetic value only; it doesnot provide protection against drivingrain or environmental conditions. Thelayers beneath the wire mesh mustfulfil the function of both weather-tightness and insulation of the build-ing. FOAMGLAS® insulation with sur-

face filler finish does not requireadditional waterproofing sheets. Thecoated FOAMGLAS® system is resistantagainst any weathering conditions,including UV resistance, and moreovermeets the surface design requirementsbehind open wire mesh.

Longterm protectionagainst moisturewww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 Surface filler coating with

reinforcement fabric4 Special render coat5 Clamping device6 Wire mesh7 Lightning

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Architect Arch. Prof. Adolf Krischanitz, DI Viktoria von GaudeckerConstruction 2004FOAMGLAS® application Façade and projecting floor insulation, 600 m2,T4+ slabs, 8 cm thick, adhesively bondedFinishing work Façade greening with trellis as growth support

Ventilatedrainscreencladding

Traffic flow management and traffic information centre Asfinag, Wien-Inzersdorf

Due to its closed cell structureFOAMGLAS® cellular glass has excellentthermal insulation values. The all glassinsulation creates an efficient barrieragainst moisture. It is fully root proofand therefore perfectly suited for façadegreening systems. A visually neutralsurface coating is directly applied tothe FOAMGLAS® insulation, which bringsthe plantings into focus. FOAMGLAS®

provides durable protection againstweathering and root penetration.

Façade greeningwithout side effectswww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Concrete structure2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ insulation,

adhesively bonded3 Surface filler coating with

reinforcement fabric4 Trellis and climbing plants

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Architect Mario Botta, LuganoConstruction 1989–95FOAMGLAS® application Cavity wall insulation, about 2700 m2,type Wall Board, 80 mm thick, mechanically fixedExternal wall Claybrick from Toulouse, wall ties in stainless steel

Cavity wallinsulation

Resurrection Cathedral, Evry (France)

During construction, the inner skin isinstalled first followed by the insula-tion, which often means that conven-tional insulation materials – suscepti-ble to the uptake of moisture – are wetbefore the outer skin can be installed.Not so with FOAMGLAS®, which isan all-weather insulation and ensuresdimensional stability and unalteredperformance throughout the entireservice life of the wall construction.

Weather-tight duringconstructionwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Structural concrete wall,

inner skin2 Wall tie3 FOAMGLAS® WALL BOARD

insulation4 Mechanical fastening5 External wall, outer skin

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Architect SAM Architekten + Partner AG, ZurichConstruction 2003FOAMGLAS® application Cavity wall insulation, about 110 m2, type Wall Board,130 /150 mm thick, bonded with blobs of adhesiveWall structure Cavity wall: Structural wall in concrete /masonry, outer skinin solid sand-lime brick

Cavity wallinsulation

Single family home, Stäfa

External brick or block walls do notprovide a totally water- or vapour-proof external shell and under theeffects of driving rain, the brick /blockcan become wet. To overcome this, anair space (which is normally 50 mm)has to be incorporated as well asair /drainage openings at the foot ofthe wall. With the dimensional stabilityof FOAMGLAS® there are no risks ofthe insulation warping and closing offthe air space and drainage vents. It canalso be excluded that mortar dropsduring brick-laying, obstructs the ventopenings and retains undesirable mois-ture within the cavity. FOAMGLAS® isnot susceptible to the uptake of mois-ture; it remains dry and provides con-stant insulation throughout the entireservice life of the wall construction.

A safety barrier thatcan face deficienciesin the outer skinwww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Inner shell2 FOAMGLAS® WALL BOARD

insulation, adhesively bonded3 Air space ~1 cm4 Outer shell, sand-lime brick

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Architect Enzmann + Fischer AG, ArchitektInnen BSA/SIA, ZurichConstruction 2003FOAMGLAS® application Cavity wall insulation, about 2140 m2, T4+ slabs,40 /200 mm thick, adhesively bondedOuter shell Cast-in-place concrete (exposed concrete)

Cavity wallinsulation

Cantonal school, Zug

Twin-skin concrete constructions makehigh demands on the insulation mate-rial. The insulation layer is unapproach-able later and has to be particularlyrobust to face a number of risks whichinclude: the effects of high loadingand moisture when the concreting forthe outer shell is done as well as possi-ble water infiltration through cracks anddamaged joints during and after con-

struction. It is with good reason thatFOAMGLAS® is called “safety insula-tion”. Due to high compressivestrength and imperviousness to mois-ture, it ensures that all the demandsmade on the insulation material arefulfilled with a performance thatremains totally effective for the life-time of the building.

Risk reduction fornon-accessiblestructural componentswww.foamglas.com

Façade structure1 Structural wall, first floor2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ slabs,

adhesively bonded3 Surface filler coating4 Outer shell, exposed concrete

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Considerations regardingthe quality and durability ofbuildings

Traditional fields of building physicsare thermal insulation, protectionagainst moisture, sound proofing andfire safety. The elimination of undesir-able physical interactions is mostimportant for the quality of the build-ing and healthy living conditions.Determinants are – in addition to eco-nomic issues – system performance,service life, indoor climate, energy effi-ciency and environmental impact. The

target of building physics is to improvethe living conditions for the occupantsand to protect the building againstundesirable effects. At that thermalinsulation plays a key part.

Particularly with regard to the growinginterest in low-energy houses, thermalinsulation and energy-saving technolo-gy is of primary importance. Thickerinsulation on all enclosure surfaces iscertainly an important step to be tak-en, however the wall structure has tobe designed and fitted accordingly, inparticular at door and window open-ings.

Inadequate thermal insulation shouldnot be underestimated, as it may notonly cause heat loss but constitute aserious risk for the building’s structureitself. Well designed thermal insulationsignificantly saves energy costs andprovides protection against damage onthe building.

Avoidance of cold bridging

Ventilated rainscreen cladding systemsappear to be a safe solution in view ofbuilding physics. With the right choiceof materials and design, the rainscreencladding can efficiently provide protec-tion from the effects of weather in the

The ideal solution in terms of building physics

The thermal and physical demands on the external wallsof a building are extremely high and conditioned by theenvironment, the structural design and the use of thebuilding. Different physical interactions occur and variousfunctions have to be fulfilled, all of equal importance tothe structure as a whole. What are the weathering, thetemperature and the nuisance conditions for the build-ing? How do we achieve a comfortable indoor climatefor the occupants without undesirable effects? Whateverthe conditions are, FOAMGLAS® provides an optimal solu-tion.

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1 Cable car stationGlacier 3000,Waadtländer Alps (CH)

long term and enable the most imagi-native scheme to be realised. As a rule,cold bridging should be avoided. Theseweak points are created wheremechanical fasteners for the suspen-sion of the rainscreen cladding havethrough-fix anchoring which generateadditional energy loss.

A number of studies – for example byEMPA Dübendorf (Swiss Material TestingInstitute) – have been made to evalu-ate the heat loss that occurs in manywall constructions because of the

structural support element for thecladding passes through the thermalinsulation and onto the load bearingstructure. Measurements from fieldstudies for different façade systemswere compared to computationalresults from a three-dimensional pro-gram. As a result: The support and fix-ing method has a considerable influ-ence on the overall insulation value ofthe rear ventilated façade. A high levelof heat loss has been seen, about13–80 % dependent on the type ofconstruction and the materials (seefigures “Heat losses” on pages 26 /27).This undesirable effect is maximizedwith growing insulation thickness –which obviously correlates with heav-ier structural fasteners.

For energy policy reasons, the trendtowards thicker façade insulation is

increasing not only in Switzerland, butEurope wide. It is absolute necessity todevelop new, innovative and energy-efficient solutions. The Swiss ‘Bundes-amt für Energie’ (BFE, Federal Officefor Energy) and ‘FachhochschuleNordwestschweiz /beider Basel’(FHNW/ FHBB, University of AppliedSciences Northwestern Switzerland)took the initiative and invited theindustry to an idea contest. In thebeginning of 2000 ten teams wereselected to develop the subject“Thermally optimised structural sup-

port elements for ventilated rainscreencladding systems”. The FOAMGLAS®-team obtained the first price withenterprise allowance for the newcladding support system FOAMGLAS®-plus.

The FOAMGLAS®-plus system

This new concept for rainscreencladding support reduces cold bridg-ing and achieves best overall insula-tion values for ventilated façades. Byuse of high compressive strengthFOAMGLAS® insulation adhesivelybonded to the structural wall andplacement of the metal fixingplate /claw plate – or T-console forheavier façade systems – to supportthe subconstruction /cladding in frontof the insulation, a system is available

that minimises cold bridging.The new façade system FOAMGLAS®-plus works with the following compo-nents:

The self-supporting insulation inhigh-compressive strength FOAMGLAS®

is adhesively bonded to the load bear-ing wall and forms a totally integratedsurface, without effects of heat lossesand air leaks. (Joints are closed andwater-tight, additional support for theinsulation is provided at window/doorlintels and at the base of the wall byuse of angle bars).

Metal fixing plates (U-shaped clawplates in galvanized steel) are pressedon to the FOAMGLAS® surface, adhe-sively bonded and mechanically fixedto the structure. The fixing level for theventilated rainscreen cladding is placedon the upper side of the insulation, aninstallation method, which createsminimal cold bridging.

Metal fixing plates (claw plates) andbolt /screw connection to the mainstructure allow for a safe mounting ofconventional façade support structures(in timber, metal) to bear the claddingelements. The system is designed forlightweight to medium-heavy claddingelements of small, medium or largesize.

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Heat losses as percentage for different structural support elements

Timber lathing1

1 Structural wall2 Thermal insulation3 Support lathing through the

insulation4 Façade support lathing

+21%

Timber lathing, crosswise1

1 Structural wall2 Support lathing through the

insulation3 Thermal insulation – layer 14 Thermal insulation – layer 25 Secondary lathing4 Façade support lathing

+13%

Steel brackets andangle profiles1

1 Load bearing wall2 Thermal insulation3 Decoupled buffer4 Fixing bracket5 Façade load bearing metal

profile6 Support lathing

+17%

1 Source (values and systems): Richtlinie “Bestimmung der wärmetechnischen Einflüsse von Wärmebrücken bei vorgehängten hinterlüftetenFassaden”, EMPA, Ausgabe 1998. (Code of practice “Heat losses as percentage due to cold bridging and air leaks”, EMPA, edition 1998)

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

45

6

26

27

Aluminium brackets andaluminium angle profiles1

1 Load bearing wall2 Thermal insulation3 Decoupled buffer4 Fixing bracket5 Aluminium steel support for

the façade

+ 28 %

Metal cassette wall andtwo layers of insulation2

1 Supporting steelwork2 Metall cassette3 Thermal insulation – layer 14 Thermal insulation – layer 25 Timber or metal support6 Metal façade fixing profile

+ 80 %

FOAMGLAS®-plus façade3

1 Load bearing wall2 FOAMGLAS® T4+ slabs3 Metal fixing plates (claw

plates)4 Bolt /screw connection to the

main structure5 Metal /timber support

structure for the façade

+ 4 %

1 Source (values and systems): Richtlinie “Bestimmung der wärmetechnischen Einflüsse von Wärmebrücken bei vorgehängten hinterlüftetenFassaden”, EMPA, Ausgabe 1998. (Code of practice “Heat losses as percentage due to cold bridging and air leaks”, EMPA, edition 1998).

2 Source (values and systems): “EMPA-Schlussbericht F +E” Nr. 127378: Hinterlüfteten Fassaden. (EMPA final report Nr. 127378: Ventilated façades).3 Source (values and systems): “Wärmebrücken aus kraftschlüssiger Verankerung von hinterlüfteten Fassaden-Bekleidungen”, Weder+Bangerter AG,

Ingenieure und Fachverlag, www.baudaten.com (Cold bridges from through-fix anchoring of rear ventilated façade systems).

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

45

6

1

2

34

5

Adhesively bonded facingelements/bricks on FOAMGLAS®

insulation

By the thermally optimised mechanicalfixing of the support structure forrainscreen cladding – due to theFOAMGLAS®-plus system – remarkableimprovements on the overall insulationvalue of the ventilated façade can beachieved.

Absolutely best performance withoutheat losses – for a minimized thicknessof the façade structure – can beachieved without any through fixings.A façade structure excluding all coldbridges is possible when the outer leafis directly bonded to the insulation.FOAMGLAS® insulation is the robustand versatile material that has therequired properties for this type ofbuilding solution.

Air tightness of insulation andsystem

Air tightness of the system is achievedby the closed cellular glass structure ofFOAMGLAS® and the adhesively bond-ed insulation layer itself with sealedjoints. The installation method mini-mizes any risks from interstitial con-densation. Heat losses due to theeffects of air flow on insulants withlow resistance to the passage of air,will not take place with theFOAMGLAS® system.

Use of FOAMGLAS® insulation allows fora totally integrated surface without theneed to cut lengths around anchorsand to stuff openings against air leaks.

FOAMGLAS® has best dimensional sta-bility. It will not warp or sag and cannotcreate any blockage of the rear ventila-tion space. It remains stable under allconditions of use and temperature fluc-tuations and moisture will have noadverse effects. Butt-pressed and adhe-sive sealed joints ensure the structuralstability of the system in the long-term;there will be no danger of air leaks andadditional heat losses to develop in thecourse of time.

28

21

4

3

65

7 98

1 Waterproof FOAMGLAS® is waterproof because it consists of pure glass. Advantage: doesnot absorb any moisture and does not swell.

2 Pest-proof FOAMGLAS® cannot rot and is pest-proof because it is inorganic. Advantage:insulation without risk, especially in the base area and the soil. No basis for nesting,breeding or seed germination.

3 Compression-proof FOAMGLAS® is extraordinarily in-compressible even with long-termloads due to its cell geometry without deformation. Advantage: use as load-bearingthermal insulation without risk.

4 Incombustible FOAMGLAS® cannot burn because it consists of pure glass. Fire behaviour:Classification according to EN 13501: A1. Advantage: storage and processing nothazardous. No propagation of flames in the event of fire (chimney effect) in ventilationspace.

5 Vapour-tight FOAMGLAS® is vapour-tightbecause it consists of hermetically sealed glasscells. Advantage: cannot soak through and already contains the vapour barrier. Constantthermal insulation value over decades. Prevents the penetration of radon.

6 Dimensionally stable FOAMGLAS® is dimensionally stable because glass neither shrinksnor swells. Advantage: no dishing, contracting or creep. Low coefficient of expansion,nearly equal to that of steel and concrete.

7 Acid-resistant FOAMGLAS® is resistant to organic solvents and acids because it consistsof pure glass. Advantage: no destruction of the insulation by aggressive mediums andatmospheres.

8 Easy to work with FOAMGLAS® is easy to work with because it consists of thin-walledglass cells. Advantage: with simple tools like a saw blade or hand saw, FOAMGLAS® canbe cut to any desired measurement.

9 Ecological FOAMGLAS® is free of environmentally damaging flame retardants and propel-lants, no relevant eco-toxic components. Advantage: After generations of use as thermalinsulation, FOAMGLAS® can be used again: as filler in landscaping or thermally insulatinggranulate. Ecologically sensible recycling through re-use.

FOAMGLAS® insulation: unrivalled performance

29

Bad workmanship and unsuitability ofmaterials can have a dramatic effecton the thermal insulation values, par-ticularly with cladding systems. In howfar faulty workmanship on insulationhas influence on the percentage ofheat loss caused by cold bridging, hasbeen shown by EMPA studies on venti-lated façades (see pictures below).Additional heat loss caused by coldbridging can vary considerably in func-tion of the quality level of workman-ship. In case of air circulation aroundthe insulation board, the heat lossfrom thermal transmittance can bumpup to a considerable degree.

1 Anchoring system: Suspension andfixing systems

a Load bearing wallb Thermal insulationc Single structural fastener

The quality of the workmanship on sitecan influence the heat losses by up to30 % (due to air leaks through the notchesaround fasteners in fibre wool insulation)

2 Ideally the structural fastener isperfectly encased

+34%

3 In practice the encasement ofstructural fasteners is less perfect

+50%

a

b

c

21 3

Heat losses as % due to cold bridging and air leaksSource: EMPA, Schlussbericht F+E Nr. 127378 [Final report F+E Nr. 127378]

FOAMGLAS® ensures that all physicaland thermal demands are fulfilled

FOAMGLAS® provides groundbreaking system solutions that significantlyreduce the likelihood of cold bridging.

The FOAMGLAS®-team draw first prize for the new façade insulationsystem FOAMGLAS®-plus, following a call for proposal by Swiss FederalAgency for Energy.

FOAMGLAS®-plus: By use of metal fixing plates/claw plates applied tothe insulation surface, the fixing devices for the subconstruction andcladding elements are positioned in front of the insulation layer, thusgreatly reducing cold bridging.

Another construction variant allows facing elements/bricks to be directlybonded to the FOAMGLAS® surface. This solution provides a totally coldbridge-free façade structure. FOAMGLAS® has the product qualities tofulfil the specific requirements of this system.

FOAMGLAS® cellular glass insulation is totally air tight and the adhesivelybonded slabs with closed joints ensure as well for structural integrity andoptimal air tightness of the system.

High density and dimensional stability of FOAMGLAS® add to the struc-tural stability of the whole cladding concept and ensure that theinsulation will not warp or sag when the building work is complete.

1

1 The spread of fire across thefaçade and the roof can con-tribute to devastating totalloss.

30

Preventive action starts with thechoice of materials

“Fire disaster … fire safety provisionsviolated … two victims are still fightingfor their lives … there is evidence thatfire safety regulations have beenignored … rapid propagation of thefire has been encouraged … sea offlames.”

These headlines make evident: To extin-guish a fire in a building is sometimesrather difficult – even if building regu-lations on fire safety have been observed

– because of the scale of the fire andthe degrees of heat. The unfortunatecoincidence of different factors can bethe cause, as for instance a high fireload on the inside of the building, rap-id spread of fire effluents, high windand difficult access to the seat of fire.Reports of fire and rescue services canspeak volumes …

All the more care and attention has tobe given to passive fire protection. Bychoosing adequate construction mate-rials the risks of fire development – inparticular the spread of fire acrossvoids and flammable materials – canbe reduced significantly.

Smouldering fires – extraneousperils

Fires of this nature generally spreadinside construction elements wherethey may go undetected for a longtime. Sometimes hours may pass bybetween ignition and detection of thefire.

The specific structural and chemicalcharacteristics of some insulants increasethe risk of smouldering fires. This isnot the case with FOAMGLAS®. The allglass closed cell structure of the insula-tion forms a shield.

Fire protection

After fire disasters heated discussions are arousedregarding responsibilities and fire precautions. Closerexamination puts the question if the fire and the devel-opment of dangerous fumes could or should not havebeen prevented? The part played by insulation materialsis a frequent issue. Studies provide clear evidence:FOAMGLAS® contributes to efficient passive fire protec-tion. Cellular glass is non-combustible and does not giveoff fumes or toxic gases.

FOAMGLAS®: Neither fumes nortoxic gases

Fire disasters must not always be iden-tical with “a sea of flames”. Have aflashback to the events on DüsseldorfAirport (1996) with 17 casualties andthe fire in the Montblanc HighwayTunnel (1999), which caused the deathof 39 people. In both cases toxic efflu-ents from insulants, that were not firesafe, were considered responsible forthe fatality (polystyrene in Düsseldorf,polyurethane at the Montblanc rock).

By contrast FOAMGLAS®, it does notgive off fumes or toxic effluents. Inrespect of fire safety FOAMGLAS® isclassified A1, non-combustible. Thematerial with its all glass closed cellstructure does not contain any binders.

Regarding fire safety FOAMGLAS® per-forms unlike all other insulants, classi-fied as “non-combustible”. The bigdifference is that FOAMGLAS® doesnot glow or smoulder and does notcause the spread of fire across the con-struction.

FOAMGLAS®

melting point > 1000 °C

According to german DIN 4102-17 themelting point of FOAMGLAS® was test-ed at MPA Braunschweig Institute (D).More than 50 % of the insulationthickness lasted the 90 minute fireperiod without significant damage. Asan official result the melting point is>1000 °C.

General protection withFOAMGLAS® in case of fire:Melt Shield-Effect

Comparable as a thermal protectionshield the melted glas surface of theflame treated area is protecting thelower cell structure. The temperatureon bearing structure is remaining low.FOAMGLAS® is defending the buildingstructure in case of fire.

To play safe:FOAMGLAS® for insulation

Recent fire testing yielded that cellularglass has excellent fire control attrib-utes. Relevant test certificates are avail-able from the national FOAMGLAS®

subsidiaries. With regard to recentfindings in preventive fire protection,architects and clients should redefinetheir safety requirements, which shouldbe geared towards low-risk manage-ment for the façade structure underfire conditions.

If it is about quality standards in build-ing, it makes sense to consider as wellappropriate fire safety measures. Fireinquests are supposed to demonstratethe need to builders that the demandson fire safety should clearly be definedat an early stage in cross-functional co-operation of planning offices /archi-tects, contractors and the client him-self.

31

1 Fire in an apartment house,Lucerne, Switzerland.

2 Fire and toxic effluents: OnDüsseldorf Airport a firecaused 17 casualties.

3 Conclusion after testprocedure: FOAMGLAS®

melting point > 1000 °C.

1

2 3

32

FOAMGLAS® provides superior performance regarding preventivefire protection

FOAMGLAS® is a safer product as it is pure and non-combustible cellular glass insulation. Reaction to fireclassification: EN standard, Euro Class A1, Technical Agreement by VFK Nr. 5273).

FOAMGLAS® thermal insulation performance is unaltered when exposed to extreme temperatures. Thematerial does not soften up to 430° C and does not sag.

Closed cell FOAMGLAS® insulation prevents oxygen to pass through the material to tease the trouble spot.FOAMGLAS® is gas-tight. The passage of hot gases through the insulation and their development inside the

insulant is to be excluded. FOAMGLAS® is a safety insulation that forms a barrier against the propagation ofthe fire.

Vapour-proof FOAMGLAS® does not need any additional protective layer, type vapour control layer. Thismeans that the fire load is insignificant when compared with other insulants.FOAMGLAS® does not develop any flammable combustion residues, fumes or toxic effluents which can beharmful to health.

~5.

0m

~4.

0m

~3.

0m

~ 1.5 m ~ 3.0 m~ 2.0 m

500

800

500

100

200

200

200

100

100

500

800

900

a b c

1

Test 1 Test 2 Test 3

Wind 2m/s Wind 4m/s

1 The figure shows the existingtemperatures on a façade forthree fire test set-ups underlarge-scale fire conditions.

Secret qualities

Be it residential, commercial, industrialor public constructions: the quality ofthe insulation system for the roof andthe façade is decisive for the servicelife of the building’s structure. As withthe flat roof it can be shown for thefaçade that long-term efficient con-structions are more economical thancheap solutions. The façade of a build-

ing fulfils an important function: itneeds to protect the fabric of thebuilding from the effects of weather –cold, heat and rain. A wide range ofaesthetic cladding materials in a greatnumber of colours and shapes, includ-ing concrete, bricks, ceramics, naturalstone, metal, fibre cement and manyothers, can be used. Usually they canprotect a building for a periodbetween 10 to 50 years or even longer.Often it is not the cladding that is theweakest link in the chain, but the ther-mal insulation.

Due to the effects from moisture, tem-perature fluctuations, wind and envi-ronmental pollution, the service life ofmany an insulant is shorter than thatof the cladding material. Loss of struc-tural integrity – warping and sagging –of the insulation material, which isexposed to climatic changes, will affectits performance and compromise thestructural stability of the wholecladding concept.

This is not the case with FOAMGLAS®:The all glass closed cell structure of theinsulation remains stable under allconditions of use. With high compres-sive strength it is robust against allsorts of stresses. FOAMGLAS® remainstotally effective for the lifetime of thebuilding.

Durability is the key to economy

Successful property developers and house-builders planahead while taking investment decisions. Not the firstlow-priced solution that comes along is given the prefer-ence, but cost-efficiency in the long-term which yields agood return of investment pays out to be most prof-itable.This means that the protection of the fabric of thebuilding, quality materials for the enclosure walls and agreater versatility in use for the interior surfaces are themain demands. With regard to energy efficiency the insu-lation material should provide a performance thatremains totally effective for the lifetime of the building.FOAMGLAS® is able to fulfil these demands and moreoverachieves the best useable floor ratio. The design structureof the insulated walls can be slimmer than for other insu-lation materials, which creates more useable space withinthe building structure.

1

1 The long-term performanceof the insulation is decisivefor financial efficiency inbuilding.

33

Unaffected, constant thermalinsulation value over decades

Moisture absorption, loss of structuralintegrity and the passage of air onfaçades are nightmare scenarios.Quality loss on badly affected insula-

tion material results in considerableheat losses. Extensive repair works willbecome necessary. In particular withregard to today’s greater insulationthicknesses, heat losses will be a majorcost factor.

Due to the specific FOAMGLAS® proper-ties – i. e. the impermeability to mois-ture, the structural stability – and thebonded installation method which pro-tects against air leaks, a totally integrat-ed surface is created which ensures effi-cient protection against serious damage.

To conclude: FOAMGLAS® insulationfunction and value will remain constantfor decades; its sustainable perform-ance plays a key part when high stan-dards are required.

No ventilation space – gain inuseable space within the buildingstructure

As FOAMGLAS® is impervious to mois-ture, no rain will wet the insulation onthe weather side and no vapour trans-port will affect it from the room side.This means significant advantages. Insummer there is no need for a ventila-tion space to allow interstitial conden-sation to “escape”.

Use of FOAMGLAS®-plus façade sub-structures dispenses with the needfor a ventilation space and greatlyreduces heat loss from cold bridging.The FOAMGLAS® rainscreen claddingsystem allows to gain several cen-timetres on the façade structure. Thisgain in useable space, calculated forthe number of floor levels in thebuilding, totals in a substantial gain-ing in space.

34

25 2 14 18 6

Gai

nof

usea

ble

spac

eby

6cm

FOAMGLAS® – a new dimensionin performance + economy

Building with FOAMGLAS® is preferring a durable and cost-efficientsolution instead of a low-end solution.

FOAMGLAS® offers high structural stability (dimensionally stable) and isresistant to damage from demanding environmental conditions.Energy-efficiency in building requires an insulation material where insu-

lation function and value will remain constant for the service life of thebuilding. There is but one: FOAMGLAS®.

Due to its outstanding physical qualities FOAMGLAS® perfectly resists tomoisture, temperature fluctuations, passage of air, environmentalpollution etc. and therefore obviates building refurbishment.

FOAMGLAS® allows for exacting insulation values over decades, a mostimportant item for buildings according to high energy standards likeSwiss ‘Minergie-’ and ‘Minergie-P-Standard’.

The FOAMGLAS® system dispenses with the need for rear ventilationwith rainscreen cladding – this gives the advantage of more useable spacewithin the building structure.

25 6 16 18

Façade structure based onFOAMGLAS®-plus substructure andFOAMGLAS® insulation slabs, type T4+,140 mm thick, provides a U-value of0.26 W/m2K

Gain of useable space by6 centimetre for a façade structurewith an identical U-value, because:1. Minimal heat losses due to the

metal plate system2. Minimal space required for the

installation of the cladding(no ventilation space required)

Conventional cladding system usingwool insulation and aluminium steelsupport for the cladding, including athermal buffer, provides a U-value of0.26 W/m2K

35

Production and composition

FOAMGLAS® manufacturing is twosub-processes. In the first part of theprocess the recycled glass is meltedand subsequently batched with theremaining raw materials and crushedin a mill. In the second sub-process thepowder mix passes in the cellulatingfurnace at high temperature whereFOAMGLAS® cellular glass is foamed –comparable to the process of fermen-tation in bread baking.

Typically 66 %+ of the raw material isrecycled glass. A very low percentageof carbon is added during manufactur-ing which makes the charcoal greycolor of the insulation. In the cellulat-ing furnace the soft, viscous glass isfoamed through release of carbondioxide (CO2) and forms millions of air-tight glass cells enclosing the gas. Thisclosed cell glass structure ensures fullresistance to the transmission of vapor(resistance to water vapor transmissionμ = oo).

Excellent Ecological profile

FOAMGLAS® insulation systems are stable under all con-ditions of use and protects the owner from unexpectedexpenditures for heating or expensive replacement of theinsulation or repair. FOAMGLAS® systems safeguard theenvironment one way or another. They allow for energysaving and, from the cradle to the grave, they do notcontribute to environmental pollution, a safe productconsistent with the principles of building physics. Cellularglass is certified to standards of health and indoor airquality. Ecologically viable product recycling is possible inthe case of building demolition.

1

1 Renewable energy sourcesare increasingly used inFOAMGLAS® production.

2 FOAMGLAS®: millions ofairtight glass cells

2

1

2

5

6

7

3

13

9

9

10 8

11

12

4

36

Environmentally friendlyproduction

The raw materials used in theFOAMGLAS® production are inherentlymineral and thus environmentallyfriendly. Principal raw material is recy-cled glass. Further raw materials arefeldspar, sodium carbonate, iron oxide,manganese oxide, carbon, sodium sul-fate and sodium nitrate. By the intro-duction of recycled glass into the pro-duction FOAMGLAS® makes a relevantcontribution to the protection of theenvironment.

Minimal environmental pollution

Due to improvements in process engi-neering and in the energy supply (com-ing from hydro electric energy and windturbines) significant progresses has beenachieved in recent years regarding airpollution, greenhouse gas emissions,consumption of energy and resources:

The demand for non-renewableenergy was reduced 4.24 kWh/kg.

Greenhouse gas emissions havebeen halved.

The percentage of recycled glasswas progressively increased from0 % to 30 and to 66 %.

The environmental pollutionscore (UBP97) was reduced from1619 to 743 points.

The eco-indicator (EI99 H, A)dropped from 0.13 to 0.09 points.

Reduction of the production energymeans that the time period for energyamortization of the investment in ther-mal insulation – as an important evalu-ation unit – is considerably reduced.

FOAMGLAS® manufacturing(Tessenderlo Plant, Belgium)

1 Mixing and batching of the raw materials: Recycled glass, feldspar, sodium carbonate, ironoxide, manganese oxide, sodium sulphate, sodium nitrate.

2 the smelting furnace has a constant temperature of 1250° C.

3 molten glass is drawn out of the furnace.

4 control room for monitoring the production.

5 The glass is drawn off and falls onto the conveyor band where it cools down before enteringinto the ball mill.

6 Production waste is re-introduced into the process.

7 Addition of “carbon black”.

8 ball mill grounds all ingredients into a fine powder before putting into stainless steel moulds.

9 the filled moulds pass through a cellulating oven (Foaming furnace) with a temperature of850° C. This is where the material gains its unique cell structure.

10 energy recovery of heat.

11 The FOAMGLAS® blocks passes through an annealing oven to allow carefully controlledcooling of the block without thermal stress.

12 The blocks are cut to size and sorted by batch. Production Waste returns back into theprocess.

13 FOAMGLAS® slabs are then packaged, labelled and palletized.

14 Finished FOAMGLAS® products are stored and prepared for transport.

37

0 20000 40000UBP/m2

17157

21807

23790

26571

46056

53232

FOAMGLAS® W+FFOAMGLAS® T4+Polyisocyanorate (PUR)Expanded polystyrene (EPS)Stone woolExtruded polystyrene (XPS)

0 2000 4000 6000 8000

Cellular glass

Stone wool

Expandedpolystyrene (EPS)

Polyisocyanurate (PUR)

Extrudedpolystyrene (XPS)

Waste disponal Production total

14.9888903

26.919902020

200032205210

180043006100

200064908490

UBP/kg

ρ λD* d weight UBP* UBPInsulation per m2 per kg per m2

kg / m3 W / mK m kg / m2 UBP / kg UBP / m2

FOAMGLAS® T4+ 115 0.041 0.21 24.15 903 ~ 21 807

FOAMGLAS® W+F 100 0.038 0.19 19.00 903 ~ 17 157

Polyisocyanorate (PUR) 30 0.026 0.13 3.90 6100 ~ 23 790

Stone wool 120 0.038 0.19 22.80 2020 ~ 46 056

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) 30 0.034 0.17 5.10 5210 ~ 26 571

Extruded polystyrene (XPS) 33 0.038 0.19 6.27 8490 ~ 53 232

* The data are taken from building database KBOB / EMPA, june 2009.** The environemental pollution score (UBP 2006) quantifies the pollution coming from resources, water consumption, emissions into air, water andground and also for the waste disposal. The environment pollution through grey energy and global warming are included in the UBP score.

FOAMGLAS® stands comparisonThe environemental pollution score (UBP 2006**) for the production and waste disposal of FOAMGLAS® is 903 points /kg(insulation). This puts FOAMGLAS® into the pole position in eco-balance. Other insulation products show points between2020 (stone wool) and 8490 (Extruded polystyrene).

Compared to surfaces, with a specified insulation value of 0,20 W/m2K, FOAMGLAS® performs very well. The environ-mental pollution score (UBP 2006**) of cellular glass is 17 157 points (FOAMGLAS® W+F), 21 807 points (FOAMGLAS®

T4+) per square meter. Other insulation products show 23 790 points (PUR), 26 571 points (EPS), 46 056 points (stonewool) and 53 232 points (XPS) for an identical U-value (see table).

38

Ecological assessment for different thermal Insulation materials.

Prod

uctio

nen

ergy

Reso

urce

s

Nui

sanc

efo

rw

orke

rs

Emis

sion

sdu

ring

prod

uctio

n

Emis

sion

sin

case

offir

e

Long

-ter

mpe

rfor

man

ce

Dis

posa

l/Re

cycl

ing

Glass wool

Stone wool

Cellulose insulation

Pure expanded cork

Expanded polystyrene

Extruded polystyrene

Polyurethane (PUR)

FOAMGLAS®

Very good Acceptable Critical Very critical

Positive ecological assessment for FOAMGLAS®: Source: Cellular glass insulation, a cost-effectiveand environmentally sustainable solution. [Schaumglas-Dammstoff, Wirtschaftlich und umweltver-traglich Dammen.] Markus Welter, Lucerne

World resources

The principal raw material ofFOAMGLAS® production today is select-ed recycled glass (in the past the mainraw material was silica sand). The sup-plies of recycled glass are ample, as inthe construction and other industrieslarge quantities amass and have to bedisposed of as waste. Plastic foaminsulation, however, is produced fromcrude oil, which is a non renewablefossil fuel.

Service life

Having outstanding qualities (mineral,impermeable to water and vapor, resist-ant to acids, non-combustible, high-temperature resistant), cellular glass is avery durable material. The long servicelife of the material has very positiveeffects, ecologically and financially, onthe service-life of the construction and,consequently, on the life of the build-ing. Maintenance and replacementcycles can significantly be reduced bythe use of durable materials.

Emissions / nuisance duringinstallation and use

Cellular glass does not release harmfulor toxic components into the environ-ment. It does not contain green housegases or ozone depleting products, noflame retardant and no con-taminativeor carcinogenic particles and fibers.When recommended installation instruc-tions are followed, cellular glass insula-tion does not produce emissions thatdegrade the environment or health, atproduction, installation nor use.

Emissions in case of fire

Dumping and burning of constructionwaste is most critical for the environ-ment, even in small quantities. In par-ticular plastic foam materials are classi-fied as harmful. In the case of burningof these materials high levels danger-ous emissions are released than in com-bustion in an incineration plant. Studieshave been conducted in Germany onthermal combustion of polystyrene

insulation, which clearly indicated thatreleased fumes are acutely toxic. Seriousadverse health effects in the long-termcannot be excluded. Even with com-bustion in a waste incineration plant,there is high impact to the environ-ment, as annually several thousand tonsof slag and filter residue have to betransported to special disposal sites.The non-combustibility of cellular glassmakes the toxicity issues irrelevant.

39

FOAMGLAS® – a valuable contribution to theprotection of the environment.

Today FOAMGLAS® is made from 66 %+ recycled glass. The FOAMGLAS®

manufacturing concept is waste reduction and green energy utilisation.For the FOAMGLAS® production only energy from renewable sources is

used.Environmental pollution during manufacturing has halved when

compared to 1995.FOAMGLAS® insulation meets all environmental and health

requirements for construction products.At the end of its service-life FOAMGLAS® disposal is simple. One option

is the use of recycled cellular glass as infill in trenches or back-up forburied pipes.

FOAMGLAS® has an outstanding service-life, which is clearly the best forthe environment.

On balance: FOAMGLAS® is an insulation concept fit for the future thatgives an answer to the genuine concerns for the environment. The systemensures that all demands on performance, durability, environmentalintegrity and sustainability are fulfilled.

3 4

3 The percentage of recyclingglass in the FOAMGLAS®

production is from 30 to66 %.

4 Crushed FOAMGLAS® – arecycled filler material fortrenches.

5 FOAMGLAS® Environmentalproduct declaration(according to ISO 14025)confirms the sustainableand ecological value ofFOAMGLAS®.

Waste disposal

In the assessment of insulation materi-als one consideration is repercussionson the environment from waste dis-posal. There are significant differencesbetween the various insulation prod-ucts. In total evaluation – and consid-ering the scarcity of raw materials – asdocumented in eco-balance data sheetsfor the building industry, plastic foaminsulation receives poor ratings for envi-ronmental pollution.

Recycling

Cellular glass being non-combustible,combustion in a waste incineration plantis not a possibility. An option is therecycling of cellular glass as crushedstone (for bedding in road construc-tion) or infill material for noise barriers.Recycled FOAMGLAS® is a safe andsuitable product for these applications,as it is dimensionally stable, neutral forthe environment, inorganic, rot-proofand without any risks for the groundwater (meets ELUAT-test requirements).If crushed and recycled FOAMGLAS® isnot used as bedding or infill material,it can be taken to an inert waste dis-posal site, like crushed concrete orbrick.

5

www.foamglas.com

Pittsburgh Corning Scandinavia ABHällebergsvägen 7, SE-44360 StenkullenPhone +46 (0)302 378 56, Fax +46 (0)302 378 57info@foamglas.se

HeadquarterPittsburgh Corning Europe SAAlbertkade 1B-3980 TessenderloPhone +32 (0)13 661 721, Fax +32 (0)13 667 854www.foamglas.com

ELUAT – elution test. FOAMGLAS® meets the requirements of ELUAT test (Investigative reportEMPA Nr. 123544 A, based on the successful testing of bitumen coated FOAMGLAS® specimens).According to declaration scheme D.093.09 of the Swiss Technical Directive for Waste Management[Technischen Verordnung über das Abfallwesen (TVA)], FOAMGLAS® is an authorised material forinert waste disposal sites.

Copyright April 2010. The product information and technical details contained in this brochure areaccurate, according to our research and technical programme, at the point of going to press. Wereserve the right to make any changes to the construction or product range, which seam technicallyappropriate, in view of our high standards for product advancement and development. All up-to-date data can be found under the button products on our website:www.foamglas.com

HG-W-1000-0410 B-S-en-BRO-0003

“Standard of quality”

ISO-standardNBN EN ISO9001:2000

Nr. BQ700-0585valid until 2012

FOAMG

LAS®

,the

ecof

rie

ndly insulation with great recycling

potential

The green solution nowwith 66% recycled glass