What Is Bead Polystyrene Foam?
Bead polystyrene foam, commonly known as expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) or foam styrene, is a type of plastic foam insulation material. Developed in Germany, its production involves heating polystyrene resin beads mixed with a hydrocarbon-blowing agent in a mold. This process enables the creation of foam products in various shapes.
The foam can expand 30 to 80 times its original size, offering exceptional heat insulation properties.
Uses of Bead Polystyrene Foams
Known for its superior thermal insulation, bead polystyrene foam is extensively used in building insulation. As a solution against global warming, it plays a significant role in reducing the energy required for heating and cooling buildings.
Beyond construction, this foam is utilized in packaging, such as shipping boxes for refrigerated or frozen foods and supermarket trays. It also serves as a shock absorber in goods transportation and as an insulating material for road pavements in cold regions.
While bead polystyrene foam is one option, other insulation materials include glass wool, rock wool, and wood fiber. Various resin-based foamed plastics are available, each with unique properties. Besides the bead method, the extrusion method produces board-like polystyrene foam products, combining resin and a hydrocarbon foaming agent.