chemistry question #1658

Rommel Sato, a 17 year old male from Riyadh asks on October 26, 2003,

Q:

What it the chemical composition of styrofoam? What raw material is the styrofoam made off?
viewed 14855 times

the answer

Barry Shell answered on October 27, 2003, A:

Styrofoam is made from the chemical polymer polystyrene by blowing air into liquid or soft polystyrene to make a foam which solidifies. Styrene is a relatively simple hydrocarbon molecule, a petroleum by-product. It was first commercially produced in the 1930s. More at http://www.cardhouse.com/x07/x07science.htm

Add to or comment on this answer using the form below.
(required)
(required if you would like a response)
Note: All submissions are moderated prior to posting.
If you found this answer useful, please consider
making a small donation to science.ca.