Most of us use the word styrofoam to denote expanded polystyrene or EPS, which is primarily used in packaging sensitive and fragile pieces of equipments, like TV sets, and vases. These foams are placed to cushion ay external force that might damage the content of the box. EPS is also mostly used to make disposable cups that are used in some gathering and events.
A more complex use of styrofoam is when used as insulators in the construction business, they are effective and economical thermal barrier because of the thousands of air pockets present. Although styrofoam is a brand name of Dow Chemical Company, it is commonly used to identify EPS. Blue boards is the term they used for styrofoam in construction industries, used as floor, wall, and roof insulation systems and also to fill up voids. Their ability to maintain their original R-value and stability makes them popular in both commercial and industrial industries. Styrofoams and EPS can also be used as materials in craft making and arts, since they come in various shapes and sizes. Another popular use of foams is in packaging, aside from protection, is also used as coolers for transporting food items, using styrofoams and EPS can prolong the hotness or coldness of the food. The development of foams truly made a big impact on our industry.