PS Expanded Bead Polystyrene

First, let's clear up a common misconception: EPS and Styrofoam are not exactly the same thing. Styrofoam is a trademarked product composed of expanded polystyrene foam, primarily used as a structural insulation material. EPS, on the other hand, is the generic umbrella term that refers to all other products, and by extension uses, of expanded polystyrene foam. Such familiar uses include packing "peanuts", consumer electronics packaging, and insulating coolers.
Our incomparable experience with foam has taught us that every foam has its place, and EPS is no exception. As a lightweight, cost-effective, durable resin-based material, EPS is well-suited for long-term applications as a structural insulation material, or as a building component for modern furniture. We encourage the use of EPS for this genre of applications.
However, Adams Foam does not typically endorse the use of EPS for disposable packaging purposes, and we are especially wary of the choice to use a non-renewable resource for "one and done" single-use packaging applications. The same attributes that cause EPS to be an attractive foam material choice for durable applications, on the other hand, also render the disposal of EPS very difficult. Technically, EPS is recyclable, but very few publicly available facilities accept EPS for recycling. Recycling EPS is also an energy-intense process and when comparing that energy investment to the recovery of material for a second generation use, it is prudent to question the practical and environmental benefits of recycling EPS. EPS is not compostable or biodegradable.
So, while EPS is a suitable and preferable material for certain durable applications, we believe that EPS should only be used for packaging purposes when absolutely necessary, and when the negative attributes of using a non-renewable resource based material are clearly outweighed by its benefits. At Adams Foam, we are glad to discuss this matter in greater detail and help you decide if EPS is the right material for your particular project.