Open-Cell XPS Foam 20mm

Open-cell extruded polystyrene foam (XPS), also known as Styrofoam, is a lightweight, strong, durable material with a lower density than its blue, closed-cell XPS counterpart. This lower density gives it a "low memory" effect, ideal for marking, engraving, transferring textures, scratching, and roughing. Open-cell XPS foam is used to create diverse scenery such as hills and cliffs, game boards, various model-making elements like bricks, or even columns or bases for large dioramas. It is a lightweight and durable material that is easy to work with, making it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals.

The texture of this material is reminiscent of very fine sandpaper, so it is recommended to sand it after painting. Process it by applying a protective layer or surface sealer such as our Decoupage Medium. Unlike blue XPS foam, this open-cell material can be etched with textured rollers or carved with a sculpting modeling tool.

Open-cell extruded XPS also has great moisture resistance and works very well as a thermal insulator. This makes it an excellent choice for creating terrain, landscapes, and other modeling elements, such as buildings, bases, and bricks, as well as being ideal for making game boards, dioramas, and other craft projects.

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

Saws and blades can also be used to cut this material. A handsaw or a saw Jigsaws are ideal for cutting large pieces of foam, while a 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 vigorously sanded. It is important to wear a fume mask or work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the fumes.

• Contents: 200x300mm
• Thickness: 20 mm
• Type: Open cell
• Estimated density: 33 kg/m³

WARNINGS:

• Extruded polystyrene is capable of emitting toxic fumes when heated. This heating can occur when cutting with a hot wire, vigorously sanding, and also by applying glues with a gun. with hot glue.
• This foam should never be worked on in an enclosed space or without a proper fume mask. Cutting polystyrene foam with a power saw will also partially melt the material and produce fumes.
• Always use glues such as our Tuft Glue or hot melt glue to bond polystyrene foam.
• White glue will only bond this type of foam where it comes into contact with air. Where air cannot reach the glue, the glue will not set and will remain liquid.
• The dust produced when sanding or cutting polystyrene foam, even with a saw, is also hazardous and should be avoided by using a dust mask and ensuring adequate ventilation.
• The maximum safe temperature for using extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam is 75 degrees Celsius (167 degrees Fahrenheit).