The major advantages of expanded perlite in construction materials are the following:
- Reduction of the end-product weight (due to low density)
- Enhancement of acoustic and thermal insulation properties (due to high porosity)
- Increase of fire resistance of in-house tiles, boards and mortars
- Improved flow characteristics and workability of bulk products (cement, plasters, mortars)
- Chemically inert
- Economically attractive
More specifically, expanded perlite:
- In Ceiling Boards (or thermal-acoustical insulation ceiling tiles) provides the highest amount of bulk per kg, contributes to control the acoustical properties. In addition, it is inorganic so it does not adversely affect flame spread and fire performance.
- As LW aggregate in concrete and plaster/mortars reduces the weight that has to be supported by load-bearing structures, improves flow-ability and provides insulation.
- As filling of cavities in bricks (thermal insulating bricks), provides thermal insulation without increasing the weight and it is inorganic so it does not adversely affect flame spread and fire performance.
- As a sandwich or in the whole mass in cement based board, provides thermal insulation without increasing the weight and it is inorganic so it does not adversely affect flame spread and fire performance.
- As loose fill insulation in masonry construction (in cavity walls) improves thermal insulation and fire resistance. It is a non-settling and free flowing semi-spherical material.
