Environment
Resource Depletion
Resource Efficiency
Compared to bulk insulation, Polyair contains less mass of embodied resources for comparable R-values.
Aluminium is relatively abundant and the amount used in Polyair while very small, is not recyclable. Polyethylene is derived from fossil fuel based feedstock and is a non-renewable albeit recyclable resource.
Embodied Fossil Fuel Energy
Embodied Energy of:
- Polyair Super: 23.8 MJ/m²*
- Polyair Multi: 35.2 MJ/m²*
- Polyair Ultra: 39.2 MJ/m²*
*Calculation is based on data sourced from Bath University, UK.
Transport intensity
Product is manufactured in Israel. Shipping port from country of origin is Tel Aviv. Destination port is Sydney.
Energy Intensity for Container Shipping of:
- Polyair Super 1.2m x 30m roll – 0.586 MJ / m²
- Polyair Super 1.2m x 60m roll – 0.527 MJ / m²
- Polyair Multi 1.2m x 30m roll – 0.819 MJ / m²
- Polyair Ultra 1.2m x 20m roll – 0.879 MJ / m²
Embodied Water
No water is used during manufacture.
Durability
Polyair’s expected lifetime is 50 years according to the manufacturer.
Reusability
Products are reusable when removed with care.
Repairability
Any tears can be repaired using heavy duty foil tape. However, the area of the product affected by the tear will not perform at its optimum due to reduction in air pockets, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the insulation. If significant damage occurs, the system should be replaced.
Design for Dematerialisation
Polyair is dematerialised product with low material content compared to
bulk insulation.
Design for Disassembly
Product is installed using mechanical fixing and is therefore able to be disassembled. Mechanical fixing is preferable to glue-fixing, which limits disassembly and reuse.
Recyclability
Aluminium is highly recyclable – however, bonded to the polyethylene makes it technically difficult to recycle. LDPE is recyclable but aluminium facings may reduce recyclability.
Maintenance
Will generally not need maintenance once installed.
Product Takeback Scheme
Yes
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
Yes
