Styrene monomer is an organic compound with the chemical formula C8H8. This derivative of benzene is a colorless oily liquid that evaporates easily and has a sweet smell. Styrene is the precursor to several polymers. Styrene occurs naturally in small quantities in some plants and foods (cinnamon, coffee beans, and peanuts) and is also found in coal tar. Styrene is usually produced from the dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene. Also, by combining toluene and methanol, and benzene and ethane, styrene can be produced. The presence of the vinyl group allows styrene to polymerize.
The safety of styrene has been evaluated for over 50 years and extensive health and safety studies conducted by manufacturers, academics and government agencies have concluded that, as currently used, styrene-based plastics are safe for consumer use. In fact, the overwhelming weight of the evidence indicates that styrene is not harmful in the amounts people encounter – whether in the workplace, or in daily life. This conclusion has been supported by many well-respected international groups and regulatory agencies, including the European Union, the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis, the U.S. FDA, and Health/Environment Canada.
Some regulatory bodies have assigned a hazard classification to styrene monomer, but it’s important to note that these classifications and listings refer to the monomer, not products made from it. These hazard classifications of the monomer do not reflect the risk for users of styrene-based polymers or end-use products.
Styrene exposure levels for customers and consumers are extremely low – far below the levels in the studies cited by regulators. Styrene is not harmful in the small amounts encountered in everyday products.
With more than 50 years of approved use in consumer products and food packaging, there is extensive scientific evidence to support the safety of styrene-based products. Our customers can continue to safely use styrene polymers for all applications — when used under normal conditions and in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet.
Uses:
– Used as a raw material for polystyrene and EPS.
– Used as a feedstock for unsaturated polyester resins.
– Used to manufacture SBR.
– Used in the production of homopolymers and copolymers.
– Used for food packaging.
– Used in the construction industry.
– Used to manufacture interior automotive components.
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