Polystyrene and styrofoam, qualities and defects
Polystyrene is one of the most commonly used materials in many industries today.
- Insulators in the construction sector
- Food container and packaging
- Protective packaging for transport and technologies
Here are the main properties of polystyrene:
1. Electrical and thermal properties – Good insulator, antistatic and conductive.
2. Naturally indestructible (or almost) – May take several years to decompose.
3. Resistant – it withstands exposure to corrosion and various chemicals very well.
4. Waterproof – Completely waterproof with low water absorption.
5. Lightweight – Polystyrene contains 98% air and 2% solids.
6. Anti-shock – Great shock absorption capacity.
7. Inexpensive – Especially for packaging products.
8. Flammable or combustible – Burns very easily, releasing harmful gases.
With its exceptional properties, this material has gained a reputation as a black sheep in the handling and reusing of residual materials.