05/04/2023
PUR vs. PIR: Know the Difference
Close relatives share a family history, but rarely have the same personality. Insulation is similar in that PUR and PIR are close in chemical composition but vary in performance. While their composition makes them different, some properties that make them similar are that they both are lightweight with low thermal conductivity, and, therefore, help improve the energy efficiency of buildings by significantly reducing energy needs associated with heating and cooling.
PUR foams are essentially made by reacting a “polyol” component and an “iso” component in which the OH groups of the polyol component chemically balance the NCO groups of the iso component and form urethane linkages. In PIR foams, the iso components react with each other in trimerization reactions to form isocyanurates. Excess iso reacts with polyol to form urethane linkages as well.
The benefits of PUR
PUR insulation can be injected into wall cavities to create an energy efficient barrier. The foam is able to reach small spaces to create an air-tight seal. According to the , PUR provides “the best thermal performance of all practical full cavity insulants.”
PUR foam can be continuously sprayed onto any type of surface. It is generally less expensive than other materials, making it ideal for renovations.
In flood prone areas, PUR’s high water resistance can minimize the impact of water damage in wall cavities, since it is a material that does not hold moisture.
The benefits of PIR
Despite PUR’s benefits, PIR insulation builds upon them. PIR (polyisocyanurate), typically cut into boards, can be used in insulated metal panels, wall cavities and as insulated plasterboard. PIR has such a , it requires only half the thickness of other mineral-based insulation products.
PIR, like PUR, is known for use as a low-moisture barrier. The most notable differentiating factor for PIR is its . PIR slows the spread of flames and reduces the smoke emitted from the fire when compared to PUR products.
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