Note: the following is a study I've done only for my self and is not an endorsement or recommendation of any kind. Its information that I'm using to make decisions for myself.
Recently my friend Clark brought up the question about the safety of using XPS when building layouts. The concern is that we commonly use hot wire cuttin tools or heat guns to shape the material sheets. When you do this you get smoke, fumes and odor from the melting. It has been reported that this is toxic, but I wanted to know if that truly was the case. Other rumors are that it offgasses cyanide.
My research shows me that this is not really the case. While the smoke and gases coming off of XPS are considered toxic, in relation to burning wood, plastic and other materials used in building houses it is of less concern that most. The main chemical release is carbon monoxide, which is toxic. However, the limited amount generated by working on a layout is very negligible. There are no other chemicals over trace amounts to be concerned with, and no cyanide.
The biggest cocern with burning XPS is eye irration, and in extreme cases nausea. So the counsel is to do this in a well ventilated area and you should be fine. Cut the foam outdoors if you can, or at least use a fan to prevent eye irritation. Using a heat gun is fine, but do be aware that XPS can burn if ignited.
Be safe!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for your comment!