Expanded Polystyrene Foam: Sustainable Waste Management from Foamex

Foamex is at the forefront of expanded polystyrene foam innovation in Australia. For over three decades, the Victorian-based company has manufactured, developed and distributed the unique material for both commercial and residential applications in the construction industry. In addition to their excellent performance in building and insulation, expanded polystyrene by Foamex has received positive feedback for being a sustainable material that reduces the carbon footprint in the environment.

Sustainability of Expanded Polystyrene Foam
Expanded polystyrene is a polymer derivative of styrene, a liquid hydrocarbon that is chemically manufactured from petroleum. Compact styrene granules are first subjected to 80°C to 100°C temperatures in special steam machines called pre-expanders. The granules will then expand up to 40 times their original volume to form small, fully sealed cells that store air. After an ageing period, the cellular beads are steam-blown into a mould, binding them together into lightweight expanded polystyrene foam.

With their longevity in the business, Foamex has streamlined the manufacturing process of expanded polystyrene foam to use up the least amount of resources, while delivering outstanding results. Expanded polystyrene by Foamex is fabricated using 0 to 1% of global crude oil, a drastically lower amount when compared to other insulating materials. Given the small value, expanded polystyrene saves up to 200 times its resource in thermal energy.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are commonly used in the manufacture of many synthetic materials, yet are more recognised for depleting the ozone layer and contributing to the greenhouse phenomenon. Through innovation, Foamex has successfully defeated the need for these harmful gases with pentane gas that has no known effects on the ozone layer.