MATERIALS

The insulated rigid foam blocks that form the primary construction element of THERMOSHELTER are made of EPS. The advantage of this material lies in the fact that it is made of 1 part resin to 50 parts air, by volume. So the building may be seen as essentially a compressed air structure. EPS is a hydrocarbon based, cyclopentane blown, Type II expanded polystyrene foam, weighing just over a pound per cubic foot. EPS is an inert substance. Vapor transmission in the thicknesses used is nil. The arch shapes are cut by block molders, using computer positioned hot wire systems.

THERMOSHELTER IS AN IDEA. It is patented in Canada and the United States. Other types of rigid cellular insulation can also be used. Using EPS in a world where fossil fuels are used to produce energy contributes to resource reduction. Essentially, one barrel of oil used in construction saves 10,000 over the life of the building.

EPS has no ozone depletion potential (ODP) and its effect on global warming is negligible. It is promoted by Greenpeace as a viable and preferred insulation technology, which it has dubbed "Greenfreeze". (See the Greenpeace Website re: greenfreeze technology). The roofing membrane is typically made from galvanized sheet metal. Tensioning components are stainless steel bolts and steel plate collectors. Other sheet metals can be used, as well as can fabrics designed for tension. Typical interior finish is Foam Coat FC-90 which is a hard fire-rated plaster. Cement plasters and adhesive applied drywall may also be used.