Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a foam material made from polystyrene beads. Polystyrene is produced through the polymerization of styrene. These beads contain a blowing agent, typically pentane, which allows them to expand when heated with steam. EPS consists of approximately 98% air and 2% polystyrene, making it lightweight and providing excellent insulation and cushioning properties.
Is EPS the same as Styrofoam?
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) and Styrofoam are often confused, but they are not the same. Styrofoam is a trademarked brand name for a type of extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam owned by The Dow Chemical Company. EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) and XPS (Extruded Polystyrene) are not the same.
Is EPS environmentally friendly?
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) is an environmentally friendly material for several reasons. It is fully recyclable and can be repurposed in various applications, which helps in reducing waste. Additionally, the production process of EPS has a low environmental impact, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to other materials. Furthermore, EPS is composed of approximately 98% air, making it lightweight and efficient in terms of material usage.
