Styreen

Styreen, also known as styrene or ethenylbenzene, is an aromatic hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C8H8. It is typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a characteristic sweet, pungent odor. The boiling point is about 145 °C and the melting point around −30 °C. It is only slightly soluble in water but readily dissolves in many organic solvents. Styreen is highly volatile and flammable, emitting vapors that can form explosive mixtures in air.

Industrial production of styreen is largely by the dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene, a process that yields styrene monomer which is then polymerized or copolymerized. In addition to polymer production, styreen can undergo various chemical transformations to yield styrene derivatives used in specialty plastics and resins. To prevent undesired polymerization during storage, inhibitors are added and the material is kept in closed, cool systems.

Major applications are as a monomer for polystyrene plastics, which are used in packaging, consumer goods, and insulation. It is also a feedstock for copolymers such as acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), and ABS plastics. Beyond plastics, styreen is used to produce synthetic rubbers, elastomers, and various resins.

Health and environmental effects: Inhalation or skin contact can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and may affect the central nervous system, causing headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Long-term exposure is associated with nervous-system effects and is classified by IARC as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). Styreen is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and contributes to air pollution; spills should be contained; it is moderately persistent in the environment and primarily eliminated by evaporation and biodegradation.

Handling and storage: Use in well-ventilated facilities, with appropriate personal protective equipment and grounding to prevent static discharge. Store away from heat, flames, and oxidizers in sealed containers with polymerization inhibitors. Regions regulate exposure limits and transport standards due to its health, fire, and environmental hazards.