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Soy Hits Home Improvement
About three years ago, a new soy based product was developed and introduced into the construction market. Manufactured by BioBased Systems in Spring Valley Ill., BioBased 501, spray-in expandable foam insulation is becoming widely popular across the nation and here in the Commonwealth.
Featured on ABC's "Extreme Home Makeover," this product is touted for its energy efficiency, soundproofing abilities and its environmentally friendliness.
 BioBased 501 goes on as a liquid and expands 100 times its volume and forms a soft, but solid barrier that does not contain loose fibers or dust that can become airborne. The composition of the product is 40 percent soy. It fills every crack and crevice in walls, around pipes and wiring which creates highly efficient thermal qualities. By filling every crack the potential for moisture entering the structure is virtually eliminated. Without this moisture the growth of mold and mildew are eliminated which in turn eliminates allergies.
Air infiltration is the number one source of indoor energy loss but Biobased 501 forms a continuous barrier against any potential air infiltration. This reduction in air infiltration has the ability to reduce utility bills 30 to 50 percent and since the insulation has no food value, it does not attract rodents or insects.
The National Association of Home Builders has named it "Outstanding Green Product of the Year" in 2003. The foam is environmentally friendly due to the fact that it contains no harmful agents such as Chlorofluorocarbon or Hydrochlorofluorocarbon. These harmful agents are found in aerosol cans and are known for ozone depletion.
When properly installed, BioBased 501 has a resistivity (R) rating of 4 for every inch of thickness. The R-value (resistance to heat flow) is determined by actual heat migration tests and theoretical models. Also, BioBased 501 carries the highest rating possible against fire: Class 1.
There is approximately 60 dealers in the nation carrying this product and we do have one here in Kentucky. Frank Pisa of Quantum Foam Insulation, located in Monticello, has the product available. This winter the Kentucky Soybean Promotion Board sponsored the application of the renewable soy insulation in the Wayne County Extension Office.
"It is our priority as the checkoff board to promote new uses for soybeans. We are excited about the soy insulation and are eager to see the demand for this market grow due to the tremendous benefits it holds, " said George Martin, Nebo farmer and Chairman of the Kentucky Soybean Promotion Board.
If you are building or remodeling a home or office and would like more information on soy insulation, contact Quantum Foam Insulation at 606-348-4549.
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