Styrene contributes to improved product performance through its use in the production of many products that are modern engineering marvels, including products essential for renewable energy, safety, and recreation.
Currently there is no other material available that can provide the same performance characteristics, quality, and cost-effectiveness as styrene. For example, by incorporating styrene:
- boats are more structurally sound;
- packaging is less costly and more sanitary compared to reusable products;
- automobiles components are lighter, making them more fuel-efficient; and
- building insulation is greatly improved, helping to conserve energy and reduce heating and cooling costs.
Durable, Efficient, & Sustainable
Wind Turbine Blades
The attributes of styrene-based composites allow wind turbines to be lighter, more efficient, and relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
Bridge Components
The durable and rust-resistant nature of styrene-based composites extends the longevity of bridges, minimizing the need for expensive repairs.
Energy-efficient Building Insulation
Styrene-based insulation allows for minimal thermal transmission, keeping cool and warm air where we want them to be. This contributes to the potential reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel-based power generation.
Automotive Body Parts and Vehicle Tires
Styrene-derived car parts and composite car bodies are lighter than other materials, and polymers made from styrene improve the lightweighting and durability of rubber tires, both of which increase fuel efficiency and decrease harmful emissions.
Food Preserving Containers
Styrene-based plastics can be molded into nearly any desirable form, are strong and very lightweight, and can withstand both high and low temperatures for longer periods. They often cost less than other comparable paper or coated paperboard products.
Carpet Backing
Latexes made with styrene are flexible and durable, extending the life of carpet and consequently decreasing the cost of maintenance over time.
Did you know?
Auto racetrack wall barriers padded with expanded polystyrene help save drivers’ and spectators’ lives. “I’m able to walk away from a 200-mile-an-hour hit,” driver Kurt Busch said after his car struck a padded barrier during the 2002 Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
