Polystyrene beads, made from hydrocarbon molecules, are used in a variety of applications such as bean bag filler, building insulation, packaging, and pest control. They can be molded into EPS foam for packing and insulation.
Polystyrene is a type of plastic made from petroleum by-products. It is formed from hydrocarbon molecules, which take the form of tiny foam particles after heating and processing. These foam particles, or beads, are large enough to be visible to the naked eye, yet small and light enough to be used in a wide variety of applications. Although many people associate polystyrene beads with bean bag filler, they are also used to make products ranging from building insulation to packaging materials. Outside of manufacturing, they are also widely used to control mosquitoes and other pests.
One of the most common uses of polystyrene beads is as a filler material in consumer goods. These beads are used in most bean bag chairs, as well as small foot bags, pet beds and pillows. They also serve as a popular filling material for stuffed animals and other toys. When used as a filler material, the beads are poured into an outer casing or casing without the use of resins or adhesives.
Polystyrene beads can serve as insulation of wall cavities in houses and buildings. They are particularly effective when installed in existing walls, where it may be impractical to add traditional fiberglass blankets. Installers drill a small hole in the drywall or plaster, then inject the Styrofoam into the wall using an air blower. The beads fill all available space and easily fit over pipes, cables and other obstacles. Polystyrene insulation helps improve comfort and energy efficiency in a building, which helps keep energy costs down and conserve fossil fuels.
The loose pearls are also used to slow the growth of mosquito populations, which helps control diseases such as malaria. These pearls are poured into septic tanks or latrine pits to disrupt the breathing patterns of the mosquito larvae. The floating polystyrene layer also prevents adult mosquitoes from leaving these breeding grounds. Unlike alternative materials, polystyrene beads remain on the surface of the water until washed away. They can also be used in moist or spongy soil, or simply around planting beds.
The beads can be molded together to form expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam. This foam serves as a popular packing material, while small peanuts of foam can be used to cushion items during shipping. The beads can also be pressed into thin sheets of foam, which are used to insulate walls, roofs or even refrigeration units.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
