GraphiteEPS
Expanded polystyrene panel enriched with graphite particles. The iconic silver-grey colour conceals a nanotechnology upgrade that blocks thermal radiation, exceeding standard white polystyrene efficiency by 20% at equal thickness.
ETICS cladding stratigraphy. Graphite particles inside the panel act as micro-mirrors against infrared radiation, lowering the Lambda value to 0.030 W/mK.
Graphite EPS is the undisputed king of the modern external insulation system (ETICS). Combining the extreme lightness of trapped air with the reflective efficiency of graphite, it allows facade thicknesses to be reduced, cutting costs and structural volumes.
White expanded polystyrene (traditional EPS) effectively curbs conduction and convection by trapping air in closed cells, but is transparent to infrared radiation. The innovation of graphite EPS lies in encapsulating microscopic graphite particles inside the polymer beads during steam expansion. These particles act as millions of micro-mirrors, absorbing and reflecting radiant heat: the result is insulation 20% higher at equal thickness.
Its extraordinary ability to absorb thermal energy is also its limitation on site. If exposed to the sun before the base coat, the grey panel rapidly overheats to 80 degrees C, causing expansion that can detach the adhesive beneath. It is vital to install it with shading nets or to opt for latest-generation versions with a reflective white surface layer (EPS Reflex).
Standards
European and international references applicable.
Physical properties
Usage environment
EPS (white or graphite) must never contact the ground: the first 30cm of facade above pavement level must use XPS (extruded), which alone resists the moisture from splashing rainwater and capillary rise without degrading.
Documented applications
TAV. DETICS thermal cladding
The prime application. Panels glued and dowelled to the exterior of masonry walls to eliminate thermal bridges.
Masonry cavity walls
Rigid panels inserted between the structural wall and the inner plasterboard or brick leaf.
Flat or pitched roofing
High-density versions (EPS 150/200) used under waterproofing membranes or under roof tiles.
SIP prefabricated panels
SIP systems where EPS acts as the insulating core between two OSB structural panels.
Thickness Needed for U = 0.20 W/m2K (nZEB) — shorter bar = more efficient insulation
TAV. EThickness needed to achieve a thermal transmittance U = 0.20 W/m2K (nZEB level) applied to a double solid brick wall. A lower bar means less material needed: graphite EPS saves 4 cm of precious facade depth vs standard EPS, translating into more usable interior area and lower drilling depths for anchors.
Used in these processes
TAV. PUsed in these systems
TAV. SReference regulations
5 norms- D.Lgs. 192/2005Implementation of Directive 2002/91/EC on the energy performance of buildingsIn force
- D.M. 26/06/2015Minimum energy-performance requirements for buildings (the 'minimum requirements decree')In force
- Dir. (UE) 2024/1275Energy Performance of Buildings - recast (EPBD)In force
- Reg. (UE) 2024/3110New Construction Products Regulation (CPR)In force
- UNI EN 13501-1:2019Fire classification of construction products and building elements - Part 1: Reaction to fireIn force
Informational links to the regulatory framework. Always verify the current text on the official source.
Operational documents from this sheet
Specification clauses, site checklists and compliance dossiers generated from the graph — and kept in sync when a cited norm changes. Join the waiting list.
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