polystyreenille

Polystyreenille is the dative singular form of the Finnish word "polystyreeni," which translates to polystyrene in English. Polystyrene is a synthetic aromatic hydrocarbon polymer made from the monomer styrene. It is a widely used, inexpensive, and versatile plastic. In its solid state, polystyrene is rigid and brittle, but when heated, it becomes pliable and can be molded into various shapes.

The properties of polystyrene can be modified through the addition of other substances. For example, adding blowing agents during its production results in expanded polystyrene (EPS), commonly known as Styrofoam. EPS is a lightweight, rigid foam material with excellent thermal insulation and shock-absorbing properties. It is frequently used in packaging, insulation, and disposable cups.

Unmodified polystyrene is transparent and brittle, finding applications in disposable cutlery, CD cases, and laboratory equipment. It can also be modified to be tougher and more impact-resistant through copolymerization with other monomers, such as butadiene, to form high-impact polystyrene (HIPS). HIPS is used in toys, refrigerator liners, and housings for electronic appliances.

Polystyrene is recyclable, though the process can be challenging due to its low density and the variety of forms it takes. It is typically collected and processed through specific recycling streams to be turned into new products or materials.