Gypsum industry news

France: Saint-Gobain Placo has launched Glasroc X 13, a ‘three-in-one’ gypsum wallboard for use in façades and exterior shells for wood-frame structures. The producer says that the board embodies three key benefits for wooden construction applications: fire protection, weather resistance and stability. It can be left uncovered for up to six months before cladding, and is available in 1200mm or 1250mm widths.

US: Xeriant has hired the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and another accreditation agency to test its NEXBOARD waste plastic-based wallboard for the construction market. The producer says that tests will include the NFPA 286 and the ASTM E84 fire safety tests, as well as tests of tensile strength, hardness, water resistance, acoustic and thermal insulating performance, and volatile organic compound emissions.

UK: Belgium-based Etex has announced its acquisition of FSi Limited, a leading UK supplier of intumescent sealants and ablative-coated stonewool batts, which generated an operating profit of Euro22.0m in 2019. The new subsidiary produces its firestopping materials in Cowdenbeath, Fife, West Thurrock, Essex and Measham, Leicestershire, where it is headquartered.

The group said, “The move strengthens Etex’s ability to provide comprehensive lightweight construction solutions for clients through its building performance division, in particular complementing its Siniat and Promat brands, which provide plasterboard and passive fire protection systems respectively. The acquisition also supports Etex’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) solutions for industrial clients through its industry division.”