In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck delve into the history, science, and environmental impact of polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam. They clarify that Styrofoam is a brand name for extruded polystyrene (XPS), mainly used for insulation, while the disposable containers and cups are made from expanded polystyrene (EPS). They trace the origins of polystyrene to the 19th century and its development for military and commercial uses in the 20th century. The discussion covers the manufacturing process, chemical properties, and the health hazards associated with styrene, a component of polystyrene. The hosts also address the environmental concerns, including air pollution from blowing agents, threats to marine life, and the challenges of recycling polystyrene. They touch on corporate lobbying efforts to resist bans and explore potential solutions like upcycling and the discovery of microbes that can break down polystyrene.
