Expanded polystyrene (EPS) apparently is expanded PS. Then what is PS? PS is the abbreviation of polystyrene. It is one of the most commonly used thermoplastic plastics, transparent and with the translative temperature higher than 100 degrees Celsius. PS is light, hygienic and commonly used to pack food, drinks, fragile and deformable goods.

EPS is expanded PS, is a generic term for polystyrene and styrene copolymers that are expanded into a variety of useful products. Expanded Polystyrene is made from non-renewable petroleum based chemicals. Expanded polystyrene is rigid and tough, closed-cell foam. It is usually white and made of pre-expanded polystyrene beads. Expanded Polystyrene beads are loaded with a blowing agent, usually pentane, and other chemical agents and additives that give the beads expansion vibrancy and allow them to be processed and molded into low-density foam articles. Usually, EPS products are 98% air and only 2% PS.Expanded polystyrene

The shock absorbing properties and other qualities of Expanded Polystyrene foam combined with its low-cost, high insulating properties, custom moldability and ease of processing make it a popular packaging material. It is used for disposable trays, plates, bowls and cups; and for carry-out food packaging. Other uses include molded sheets for building insulation and packing material for cushioning fragile items inside boxes.

The production capacity of PS is greatly increasing these years. PS is mainly used in producing packaging containers, commodities, electrical and electronics businesses. North America and Western Europe produce most of the PS in the world.