Marine Corps goes green: new foam cuts energy costs, brings new look to desert landscape

Photo By Cpl. Tyler Barstow | Local nationals help apply a coat of insulating foam to the post exchange, Aug. 14, 2008. The foam is used to lower energy costs, while protecting the buildings from noise, dirt and sand. "I think it's great that we have projects like this to do what we can to employ Iraqis," said Col. John D. Folsom, camp commandant, and assistant chief of staff, Base Operations. "I understand the pay is good and it gives them something to do while helping their economy."  

AL TAQADDUM, IRAQ

08.16.2008

Story by Cpl. Tyler Barstow 

1st Marine Logistics Group

By Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow
1st Marine Logistics Group

CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq – While the benefits are numerous, the transformation of several major base structures here from drab canvas to cocoon-like structures encased in foam is turning heads.

In an effort to cut energy costs, the Marine Corps has teamed with Honeywell in a project that provides external insulation for temporary structures. The operation brings a new look and feel to the hot Iraqi desert by enclosing major structures in foam.

The mainside post exchange was one of the first buildings here to undergo the transformation. It was sprayed with foam that expands up to two inches of protection. Then it is coated with an acrylic base which seals and gives it a white appearance. The whole process insulates, waterproofs and creates an airtight seal on the structure. All of this was completed in less than a week's time at the PX, one of the larger buildings they are insulating.

"(The foam) protects from (ultraviolet) rays and has a life expectancy of 15 years," said Jim F. Goodhart, the Honeywell program manager, from Los Angeles.

Beyond energy savings, the second goal is to provide comfort for the service members out here, explained Tollie Strode Jr., the site manager.

"Two days ago, we heard (service members) saying the PX was 102 inside," Strode said. It is now much cooler and the conditions are "workable" for the employees there.

"It definitely lowered the temperature," said Kandace M. Carver, the cash case supervisor. "When I'm standing up there, I'm not dripping sweat," said the 22-year-old from Yuma, Ariz.

Goodhart explained other projects he has worked on that would cut the number of air-conditioning units needed to cool a place, thanks to the foam. With fewer air conditioners needed, the generators used to power them are freed up.

This new project is greatly praised by Marine leadership who embrace the project for energy saving benefits, safety and the creature comforts it provides.

"It should absolutely improve the quality of life," pointed out Col. John D. Folsom, camp commandant, and assistant chief of staff, Base Operations. "The better insulation helps act as a fire inhibitor and provides noise abatement which will keep things quieter from aircraft and the generators."

Already, the PX is noticeably cooler and dust is less apparent.

"It basically seals the tent to the floor," Strode said. "It won't have sand and dust getting in and noise is dramatically reduced."

Once on site, local nationals were hired to help with the project. Although the job is completed quickly, many workers are required to help mask the area and assist the sprayers to move their hoses, and to move the screen which was employed to help detract the back spray.

"I think it's great that we have projects like this to do what we can to employ Iraqis," said Folsom, from Omaha, Neb. "I understand the pay is good and it gives them something to do while helping their economy," said the 55-year-old.

With benefits across the table for all involved, the newly encased structures are a welcome addition to the Camp Taqaddum landscape.

• Date Taken: 08.16.2008
• Date Posted: 08.25.2008 05:16
• Story ID: 22834
• Location: AL TAQADDUM, IQ