EPS polystyrene plates are resistant to most external factors that affect thermal insulation in the conditions of its use.
One of the advantages of EPS is its chemical resistance, in this article we will look at the chemicals that EPS can interact with, which highlights its high resistance and durability, and the limitations regarding the interaction of polystyrene with some chemicals.
Styrofoam resistance to chemicals:
Water, sea water, solutions of salts +
The most common building materials, for example, lime, cement, gypsum, anhydrite +
Alkalis such as potash, ammonia, lime water +
Soap, solutions of surfactant +
Hydrochloric acid (35%) +
Nitric acid (up to 50%) +
Sulfuric acid (up to 95%) +
Weak and diluted acids, lactic acid, carbonic acid, humic acids +
Salts, fertilizers (calcium nitrate, deposits on plaster, deposits on metal) +
Bitumen +
Milk +
Silicone oil +
Alcohols, for example, methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol (alcohol) +
Edible oil +/-
Paraffin oil, petroleum jelly, engine oil for diesel engines –
Tarry substances (small products) –
Cold bitumen and bitumen putty with solvent –
Organic solvents such as acetone, ethyl acetate, benzene, xylene, trichlorethylene, tetrachloromethane, turpentine, etc. –
Saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons, for example, cyclohexane, refined gasoline, white spirit (gasoline solvent) –
Carburetor fuel (ordinary gasoline and super gasoline) –
Explanation: + stable; – not stable; +/- conditionally stable, may shrink or dissolve after a long time.
One of the key advantages of expanded polystyrene is its excellent resistance to water. It does not dissolve and does not absorb moisture, which makes it an excellent material for use in conditions where humidity is high or the presence of water is high.
EPS foam boards do not rot in an environment with high humidity and retain their size and shape. They are resistant to mold, fungi and bacteria. It is also important that EPS polystyrene boards are resistant to the most common building materials, for example, lime, cement, gypsum, anhydrite.
However, EPS is a material that can be sensitive to interactions with some chemicals. The table shows several substances that are categorically not recommended to interact with foam plastic: strong organic solvents, aromatic solvents, concentrated acids, strong alkalis.
It is important to note that the interaction of chemicals with Styrofoam can depend on specific conditions, such as temperature, duration of contact and concentration of the substance. It is recommended to always check the chemical compatibility of the foam before use, especially if dealing with aggressive chemicals.
In general, Styrofoam’s ability to resist a variety of chemicals, including water, solvents, acids, and alkalis, makes it an indispensable material for construction, packaging, and other industries.
