Description
Polystyrene (PS) plastic is a naturally transparent thermoplastic that is available in two different forms: as a typical solid plastic and a rigid foam material. PS can be easily converted to semi-finished products like foams, films and sheets. It is a good electrical insulator and has good chemical resistance to diluted acids and bases. Since it doesn’t have any crystal in its structure, it has a good optical clarity.
Although its’ various properties, it has many limitations. For example It is attacked by hydrocarbon solvents, has poor oxygen and UV resistance, and is rather fragile, i.e. because of the stiffness of the polymer backbone, it has poor impact strength. Furthermore, because of the non-crystal structure temperature limit and low glass transition temperature (Tg) , its upper temperature limit for continual use is low. Below its Tg, it has medium to high tensile strength (35 – 55 MPa) but low impact strength (15 – 20 J/m). Despite all these weaknesses, styrene polymers are very attractive large-volume commodity plastics.
There are Three major types of polystyrene: polystyrene foam, regular polystyrene plastic, and polystyrene film. expanded polystyrene (EPS) includes the most well-known and common types of polystyrene to include styrofoam and packing peanuts. EPS specifications are as follow:
- High thermal insulation
- Resistant to Moisture
- Extremely durable
- Easily recyclable
- Versatile in strength
- Easily laminated with epoxy resin
- Manufactured into different shapes, sizes, and compression materials
- Lightweight and portable
- High shock absorbency characteristics
- Compression resistant
- Branded by printing or adhesive labeling.
- Completely recyclable
Also it has some disadvantages like:
- Not resistant to organic solvents
- Cannot be used in combination with MPVC hydro-insulation foils
- Previously, EPS was made from Chlorofluorocarbons which damaged the ozone layer
- Flammable if oil painted
- Health concerns with styrene chemicals seeping into hot beverages or food placed in EPS cups
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