Polystyrene is a polymeric substance and is usually a plastic with light, hard, insulating properties. It is usually white in color and can also be found in foamed and hardened form. Polystyrene is used in many different fields. Here are some of the uses of polystyrene:
Packaging: Polystyrene is widely used in the packaging industry due to its light weight, shock-resistant and insulating properties. It is especially preferred in packaging materials used for the protection of sensitive and breakable products.
Construction: Polystyrene is widely used in the construction industry as insulation materials. It is used for purposes such as interior and exterior wall insulation, roof insulation, sound insulation and thermal insulation. Polystyrene foam sheets or polystyrene foam filling materials are used to improve energy efficiency and reduce heat losses.
Electronic and electrical items: Polystyrene is used as an insulating material in electronic and electrical devices. Polystyrene materials can be used in components used in transformers, capacitors, electrical cables and electronic circuits.
Textiles and furniture: Polystyrene fiber is used as a filling material in the textile industry. It is preferred as a lightweight and insulating filling material in pillows, duvets, furniture upholstery and clothing.
Food and beverage industry: Polystyrene is used in food and beverage packaging. Plates, cups and containers used especially in fast food restaurants are made of polystyrene material.
Polystyrene is a material with various fields of use and comes in different forms (foam, sheet, fiber, film, etc.) can be used. However, polystyrene foam packaging and disposable polystyrene products may cause concerns about sustainability due to their environmental impact and recycling difficulties. For this reason, it is encouraged to research alternative materials to the use of polystyrene, taking into account environmental responsibilities.