Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, closed-cell thermoplastic foam derived from polystyrene resin, typically produced by steam-expanding polystyrene beads and molding them into rigid blocks or shaped components. EPS is widely used in building insulation, protective packaging, and thermal management applications where low density, excellent insulating properties, and cost-effectiveness are priorities. Engineers select EPS for applications requiring thermal resistance in moderate-temperature environments, though its brittleness and limited mechanical strength restrict use in load-bearing roles; it is often replaced by polyurethane foam or mineral wool where higher performance or fire resistance is needed.
Compliance & Regulations
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Compressive Strength(σc) | 0.2455 | ksi | — | ||
Flexural Strength (MOR)(σf) | 4.947 | ksi | — | ||
Ultimate Tensile Strength(σUTS) | 3.326 | ksi | — | ||
Young's Modulus(E) | 2.930 | ksi | — |
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Glass Transition Temperature(Tg) | 116 | °F | — | ||
Melting Point / Solidus(Tm) | 397 | °F | — | ||
Maximum Service Temperature(Tmax) | 494.6 | °F | — | ||
Thermal Conductivity(k) | 0.02053 | BTU/(hr·ft·°F) | — |