Polystyrene
Polystyrene is a closed cell, lightweight rigid cellular plastic material produced in a range of densities from 10 kg/m3 to 32 kg/m3.
There are two types of polystyrene;
expanded and extruded.
They are made differently, and have different properties.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS)
is a block moulded product made from plastic beads that are expanded and fused together into a block. The quantity of beads used in the process determines the density of the block. EPS densities commonly range from 10 - 30kg/m3.
Any required sheets, shapes and sizes can be cut from these blocks.
Properties of EPS include being light weight, rigid, a good thermal insulator, easy to work and relatively inexpensive.
Polystyrene (EPS) comes in standard size sheets at various thicknesses to 600mm. the most commonly used grade is SL (Standard Grade) for which prices are shown. Hard (VH) Grade sheets are around twice the price of SL.
For custom cut shapes and sizes, contact us or send drawings so we can provide a free quote.
Extruded (XPS) Polystyrene
is made from similar materials, but is formed by a continuous extrusion process. This process results in a higher density product that has no air passages between the cells, like EPS does. XPS is consequently more rigid, stronger, a superior insulator, and is also waterproof. It is however available in a smaller range of sizes and is more expensive. If requiring XPS please contact us directly.
Both EPS and XPS are fire retardent and self-extinguishing, although both will melt and burn in the presence of fire from another source.
Some uses for polystyrene?
Polystyrenes are used in thermal insulation, such as wall, roof and sub floor, ceiling panels and decorative surfaces. Polystyrene is also widely used in the construction industry for concrete block outs (voids), pipe insulation, protective packaging, and buoyancy items.
Stage sets, sign boards, advertising displays, pelmet boxes and pin boards are also made using polystyrene.
For the material safety data sheets on these products click here.
