Granular, or, in other words, cell foam glass – a specific heat and sound insulation material, which is a porous surface with glass cells of the gaseous medium. Foam glass is produced from a mixture of two elements: a finely ground glass and special foaming agent, in its structure resembling pumice.
Besides the obvious advantages of his – the ability to absorb sound and retain heat, foam glass has different qualities as:
The strength and low thermal conductivity
Granulated foam glass different cellular structure in which each cell is separated from other narrow glass film. This structure significantly reduces the thermal conductivity of the material to between 0,059Vt /m°K to 0,061 Vt/m°K. With regard to strength, it reaches a value of 1.0-2.4 MPa and not reduced over time even if the material is stored for a long time in water.
Fire resistance
The granulated foamed glass manufactured at very high temperatures – over 800°C. That is why it can not be influenced by the temperature. Cellular glass can maintain a normal operation state at a temperature in the range from -200°C to + 600°C, while it is not ignited, does not release during the heating of gases or vapors.
Moisture Resistance
Foam glass is a hydrophobic material, and its water absorption even when fully submerged does not exceed 9% of the liquid. This phenomenon is easily explained: the moisture accumulates in the destroyed cells, located on the upper layer of the material – they formed immediately after the completion of production and their number does not increase over time. The closed glass cells differ moisture and vapor barrier.
It is important to remember that we are talking about the foam glass as a single product – as a bulk element is characterized by water vapor permeability and promotes the removal of moisture.
Chemical Biological stability
Granulated foam glass is not affected by most of the reagents. Do not subject it to biological influences. A distinctive feature is unattractive for any rodent.
Ecological
Despite the fact that the foam glass is an inorganic material, it is absolutely safe and environmentally friendly for the environment. The chemical composition of it coincides with the material, which is a source in the production – from the ordinary glass. Additionally, this material does not form compounds nor emits harmful substances which might disturb the sanitary safety.
Wearing qualities
Another feature of foam glass is its durability, which also explains the features of the product structure and integrity of cells. Foam glass is characterized by strength, frost resistance and immutability dimensions. It is for this reason that foam glass is a versatile product and is widely used in the construction of buildings and structures.