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Griffolyn® VaporGuard®: Protecting Against Radon and More

Posted by Global Plastic Sheeting on Tue, Feb 27, 2024 @ 02:59

Griffolyn® VaporGuard® is a remarkable 3-ply laminate designed to provide robust protection in a lightweight package. Its unique composition consists of an aluminum core sandwiched between two layers of multi-axially oriented HDPE/LLDPE, offering exceptional strength and durability.

What is a 3-Ply Laminate?  

This refers to the construction of the material. "3-ply" means there are three layers stacked on top of each other. In the case of Griffolyn® VaporGuard®, these layers consist of:

  • An aluminum core: This is a layer of aluminum, which is a strong and lightweight metal.
  • Two layers of multi-axially oriented HDPE/LLDPE: These are types of plastic that are arranged in a specific way to make them strong and durable.

So, when we say Griffolyn® VaporGuard® is a "3-ply laminate designed to provide robust protection in a lightweight package," we're saying it's made of three layers (aluminum and two types of plastic) that are put together in a way that makes them strong and durable, while still being lightweight. This makes it effective at protecting whatever it's used to cover, while also being easy to handle and work with. 

What Makes VaporGuard Unique and Effective?

  • Low Permeance: VaporGuard's combination of HDPE/LLDPE and aluminum delivers extremely low permeance, making it ideal for specialized applications such as radon protection, cold storage facilities, museums, and computer rooms.

    • What is "Permeance"?  Permeance refers to how easily something allows gases or liquids to pass through it. In the case of Griffolyn® VaporGuard®, it has "extremely low permeance," which means it doesn't let much moisture or air pass through it. This is important because it helps prevent things like water vapor or gases (like radon) from getting through the material and causing damage to whatever it's protecting.
  • ASTM Compliance: It meets Class B, ASTM E-1745-11 Standard Specification for Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact With Soil or Granular Fill Under Concrete Slabs, ensuring reliability and performance in demanding environments.

    • What is ASTM Compliance?  ASTM is an organization that sets standards for many different materials and products to ensure they meet certain quality and safety criteria. When something is "ASTM compliant," it means it has been tested and meets the standards set by ASTM for its specific use. In the case of Griffolyn® VaporGuard®, it meets the ASTM E-1745-11 standard, which is a specific standard for water vapor retarders used in certain construction applications.
  • Features and Benefits: VaporGuard boasts a host of features that enhance its effectiveness:

    • Multiple polyethylene layers and an aluminum core resist punctures and tears.
    • UV stabilization protects against sunlight degradation.
    • Cold-crack resistance prevents failures in extreme temperatures.
    • Chemical resistance ensures durability even in harsh environments.
  • Easy Installation: Its flexibility, lightweight nature, and availability in custom sizes facilitate easy handling and quick installation to meet specific project requirements.

Applications of Griffolyn® VaporGuard®:

  1. Architectural Vapor Retarder: Ideal for underslab, walls, and ceilings in buildings, particularly in cold storage facilities and high-moisture areas.

  2. Floor Covers and Enclosures: Used as floor covers, dust partitions, cleanroom enclosures, temporary walls, and building enclosures.

  3. Environmental Protection: Employed as soil covers for controlling leachate in stockpiles and landfills, as well as erosion control and slope protection covers.

ASTM Test Methods:

  • ASTM E-1745-11: Standard Specification for Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact With Soil or Granular Fill Under Concrete Slabs.

Ordering Information:

  • Available Colors: Black.
  • Sizes: Custom sizes up to 100’ x 120’ and custom fabrication available to meet exact specifications.
  • Usable Temperature Range: From a minimum of -50°F (-45°C) to a maximum of 170°F (77°C).
  • Outdoor Exposure: Under normal continuous exposure, the average life expectancy ranges from 18 to 30 months.

Griffolyn® VaporGuard® stands as a testament to innovation in protective packaging, offering unparalleled performance in safeguarding against radon, moisture, and environmental elements. Its versatility and reliability make it a preferred choice across various industries where durability and longevity are paramount.

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Tags: ASTM E-1745-11, Radon Protection