About Styrenics Polystyrene Foams Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and Extruded polystyrene (XPS) are both made from polystyrene. Whereas EPS is composed of small plastic beads that are fused together, XPS begins as a molten material that is pressed out of a form into sheets. EPS and XPS are thermoplastic foams that offer a wide array of properties, from thermal insulation to shock absorption, making them essential components of various applications. What is Expanded Polystyrene? Expanded polystyrene, or EPS, is a lightweight plastic foam produced from expandable beads of polystyrene. It has been a material of choice for more than 50 years, because of its versatility and unique combination of qualities. EPS consists of 98% air; it has excellent insulation and shock-absorbing properties. Applications EPS is used in many everyday applications, including: Food packaging to maintain the temperature of hot or cold food and prevent spoilage Packaging Crash helmets Windsurfing boards Thermal insulation in buildings Sound insulation Road construction. What is Extruded Polystyrene? Extruded polystyrene (XPS) is a thermoplastic polymer. XPS is produced from the same base materials as EPS but, unlike EPS, it has a closed cell structure and is often stronger, with a higher mechanical performance. XPS shows outstanding thermal insulation properties as well as high compressive and mechanical strength. It is also lightweight, inert to water, and shock resistant. Applications XPS is used in various applications, namely: Thermal insulation in buildings & vehicles House appliances components (e.g. Insulative liner for refrigerators) Food packaging to maintain the temperature of food and protect it from shocks
12 February 2025 Priority? Insulation! A pan-European campaign to drive the energy transition The leaders of Europe's insulation industry associations - Exiba, Eurima, Eumeps, and PU Europe - explore why tackling excessive energy use in buildings first is the key to achieving energy transition, cutting costs for citizens, and keeping European industries competitive.
10 December 2024 Time for a new, multidisciplinary approach to the study of microplastics in the environment In recent years, there has been a growing body of research on nano- and micro-plastics and the potential risks for human health and the environment. As part of our commitments, we have been collaborating with regulators and scientists to better understand how microplastics are formed, their impact, and to propose measures to mitigate their release.
1 October 2024 European Commission’s Political Priorities for 2024-2029: A Styrenics Perspective In July, during her election for a second term as President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen presented her Political Guidelines to the newly elected Members of the European Parliament.