OPEN-CELL XPS FOAM 20 MM 200X300 5141

Open-Cell XPS Foam 20 mm 200x300 5141

Open-cell extruded polystyrene XPS 20 mm

Open-cell extruded polystyrene foam, also known as Styrofoam, is a lightweight, strong, durable, and less dense material than the blue, closed-cell XPS foam. This results in a low memory effect that is ideal for marking, engraving, texture transfer, scratching, and roughing. Open-cell XPS foam can be used to create various landscapes, such as hills and cliffs, game boards, various model-making elements like rocks, or even columns and large plinths for dioramas. It is a lightweight and durable material that is easy to work with, making it a popular choice among amateurs and professionals.

The texture of this material is reminiscent of very fine sandpaper, so for painting, it is advisable to post-process it with a protective coating or surface sealer such as our Medium Decoupage. Unlike blue XPS foam, this open-cell material can be engraved with texture rollers or cut with a modeling tool for sculpting.

Open-cell extruded XPS is also highly moisture resistant and works excellently as a thermal insulator. This makes it an excellent choice for creating terrains, landscapes, and other model-making elements, such as buildings, plinths, and rocks. It is also ideal for making game boards, dioramas, and other craft projects.

There are several tools you can use to shape and cut it. One of the most commonly used tools is a hot wire cutter, a handheld device that heats a wire to cut through the foam. A hot knife is another tool that uses heat to cut through the foam, but it is more precise than a hot wire cutter and ideal for creating intricate details.

Saws and knives can also be used to cut through this material. A hand saw or jigsaw is ideal for cutting larger pieces of foam, while a sharp utility knife or craft knife can be used for smaller cuts and details.

When working with this material, it is essential to take safety precautions, as this material can release toxic fumes when heated or sanded intensely. It is important to wear a smoke mask or work in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of the fumes.

Contents: 200x300mm

Thickness: 20 mm

Type: Open-cell

Estimated density: 33 kg/m³

WARNINGS:

Extruded polystyrene XPS can release toxic fumes when heated. This heating can occur when cutting with a hot wire, aggressive sanding, and also by applying hot glue.

This foam should never be worked in an enclosed space or without a smoke mask. Cutting Styrofoam with an electric saw will also melt and produce fumes.

Always use suitable adhesive, such as tufting glue or hot glue, to glue Styrofoam.

Standard PVA glue or white glue will only bond this foam where it comes into contact with the air. Where the air cannot reach the glue, the glue will NOT harden and will remain liquid.

Dust generated when sanding or sawing Styrofoam with a saw is also dangerous and should be avoided by wearing a dust mask and ensuring adequate ventilation and other safety measures.

The safe maximum operating temperature of extruded polystyrene XPS is 75 degrees Celsius (167º Fahrenheit).