What is REfoam?

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REfoam is a version of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) blended with an additive that allows it to biodegrade in Biologically Active Landfills.  Biodegradation of most materials require moisture, oxygen, and heat to promote sufficient microbial activity.  Biologically active landfills typically add liquids and pump in air to help boost their numbers and stimulate higher productivity.  Keep in mind that some landfills are designed to prevent biodegradation and suppress the biproduct of methane gas.  For the most part, REfoam will only biodegrade in those landfills designed to promote and capture methane as a fuel capable of generating electricity.

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How can REfoam be both biodegradable and recyclable?

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EPS foam and in turn, REfoam, are very stingy users of material, and can be up to 98% air.  This porousness makes the material ideal for a lightly introduced additive that promotes the biodegradation.  Typical recycling grinds and densifies the foam into a much heavier state that can then be used to manufacture other types of products.  This effectively neutralizes the additive and allows it to be mixed into the regular EPS waste collection which dilutes the additive even more.

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How long does the biodegradation process take?

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Independent ASTM D5511 testing has shown some biodegradation of material happens within 30 days, however, product density and thickness, as well as the activity level of each landfill will play important roles as to overall length of time.

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How does REfoam compare to other ecologically marketed products?

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REfoam is lightweight yet very strong, offering superior insulation and protection.  Some soft panel insulation options do not hold shape or add to shipping integrity resulting in a higher rate of damage or failure.  While thermal effectiveness is largely a matter of thickness, crushing panels or materials that collapse due to moisture and condensation will also provide reduced performance.

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Why is REfoam not white like regular EPS?

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Though the additive is clear, a dye is used as a marker to prove the material contains the additive along with proper absorption.  It also helps to easily identify REfoam products from those made from regular EPS.  Typically, the color will resemble something akin to oatmeal or a light shade of Khaki.