Foamular extruded polystyrene for new Jane Foss Russell Building

The new Jane Foss Russell Building at the University of Sydney has recently opened its doors to staff and students. The building is designed to raise the bar in green building. It has many green features, including Foamular extruded polystyrene insulation and has achieved a 5-Star Green Star Rating.

The Jane Foss Russell building is a pioneering example of contemporary 21st century architecture that has been designed to be the university hub for student activity and link two separate campuses together.

Foamular is just one of the many features that work in unison to achieve the 5-Star Green Star Rating. The building includes the innovative chilled beams system, solar panels on the roof, energy efficient lighting, and water tanks that are expected to save 60% of potable water consumption.

The building uses chilled beams throughout to cool the building as an alternative to air-conditioning. This is an Australian first and is expected to reduce overall electrical consumption by 30%.

Foamular extruded polystyrene was used for a roof membrane system and under the main plaza. 4500 meters square of Foamular was used throughout the project. 60mm Foamular was chosen which gives an R-value of two.

Roof membrane, provides superior resistance from solar generated heat. This inhibits heat radiating from the roof terrace into the building. The efficiency of roof insulation is key to maintaining the chilled beam cooling system. When heat entering the building is limited by Foamular, the chilled beam system is more efficient and reduces energy costs.

The main plaza area is over 3000 square meters of public space, but there are partially underground floors below. Foamular inhibits heat transfer between the plaza and the lower levels, improving energy efficiency. Foamular's high compressive strength also means it is safe to walk and drive on, and pavers can be laid over it, avoiding excessive concrete and environmentally damaging materials.