Which is better, Phenolic Insulation Board or PIR Insulation?

In the construction and insulation industry, two materials often come under consideration for thermal efficiency, fire resistance, and durability: Phenolic Insulation boards and PIR (Polyisocyanurate) insulation. Both have their unique advantages, but understanding the properties, benefits, and limitations of each is essential for making an informed choice. Here, we’ll break down their differences, common applications, and factors that determine which is the better option for different project needs.

1. Understanding Phenolic Insulation Board and PIR Insulation

Phenolic insulation is made from phenolic foam, a thermosetting material known for its high-performance insulation properties and enhanced fire resistance. Its closed-cell structure makes it a top contender for thermal conductivity.

In contrast, PIR insulation, a rigid foam made from polyisocyanurate, is renowned for its versatility and durability. PIR has good thermal efficiency and moisture resistance, and is known for its long-term stable performance.

2. Thermal Performance

Both phenolic and PIR insulation are popular for their excellent thermal performance, but phenolic boards generally outperform PIR in thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity of phenolic boards produced by Clear Company ranges from 0.020W/mK to 0.025W/mK, while the thermal conductivity range of PIR boards is approximately 0.022-0.026 W/mK.This slight advantage means that phenolic boards can often achieve the same level of insulation with a thinner profile, which is useful in tight spaces or applications where minimizing thickness is important.

3. Fire Resistance and Safety

Fire resistance is crucial, particularly in commercial and residential buildings. The phenolic Insulation Board produced by Clear can resist flame combustion at 1300℃, with only surface carbonization, no combustion, no shrinkage, and low smoke and non-toxic properties! The excellent fire and flame retardancy of Phenolic Board is a key safety consideration for high-rise buildings and areas with strict fire safety regulations.

PIR insulation materials also have fire resistance, but a large amount of flame retardants need to be added to achieve it, and high-temperature combustion often produces more smoke.However, it meets most fire safety requirements and is widely used in buildings, especially when combined with fire-resistant barriers.

4. Moisture Resistance

In terms of moisture resistance, PIR insulation material is equivalent to phenolic insulation board. Both are closed cell structures with high waterproofness. The phenolic insulation board produced by Clear Company can be soaked in all directions for 7 days, with a water absorption rate of less than 6%, and the insulation performance will not change with time. Suitable for damp or humid environments such as basements, exterior walls, and roofs.

5. Durability and Longevity

Both phenolic and PIR insulation are known for their durability, but Phenolic insulation boards are particularly robust and can withstand a broader range of environmental conditions without degradation. Phenolic insulation board is a closed cell foam structure, and the closed cell rate is more than 95%!

6. Cost Considerations

Cost can be a deciding factor in insulation choice. Phenolic insulation board is usually more affordable. Phenolic insulation board itself has flame retardancy and does not require the addition of additional flame retardants. However, PIR insulation materials need to add a large amount of flame retardants to achieve comparable flame retardancy, which will result in higher costs!

7. Environmental Impact

Phenolic insulation board adopts fluorine free foaming, which can reach ENF level for safety and environmental protection! The production process of PIR insulation materials may generate some pollution, but overall the impact on the environment is relatively small.

Conclusion

Choosing between phenolic insulation boards and PIR insulation largely depends on the specific requirements of the project. If thermal efficiency and fire safety are the top priorities, phenolic insulation board is a better choice.