Technical info about EPS

Under normal conditions, EPS is chemically stable and biologically inert.

The material is nontoxic. It is flammable and precautions must be taken in storing and using EPS in order to ensure against combustion.

EPS must be stored away from any likely cause of ignition or fire hazard

EPS products should be protected from high winds

EPS must be protected from extended exposure to sunlight (over 1 week) to avoid discolorization and surface dusting and erosion

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a CFC and HCPC free material; It contains no known biological or physiological irritant.

EPS products are non-toxic but are not biodegradable.

Scrap EPS may be returned to our plant for re-cycling and disposal.

Your local authorities should be contacted before using any other methods of disposal.

EPS contains small residual amounts of Pentane and Styrene Monomer.

When forming, cutting or shaping EPS, care must be taken to avoid ignition by burning or hot wire cutting methods.

During hot wire cutting, adequate ventilation must be provided to prevent respiratory tract and eye irritation that may be caused by fumes which could be generated.

Where considerable dust is generated by sawing or grinding, suitable dust extraction must be provided or dust masks worn to prevent inhalation of dust.

When cutting EPS with automatic saws or knives, there is a possibility of the build-up of static electricity. This equipment must be properly grounded.

When subjected to constant of heat of 446 degrees F or above, EPS emits inflammable vapors, which will easily ignite. Melting point is 392 degrees F and Ignition temperature is 662 degrees F. It is not recommended that EPS be used in applications where the temperature could reach above 150 degrees F.

Extreme caution must be used when storing, shaping and applying EPS to ensure total protection from fire.

Fire extinguishers should always be immediately and readily accessible.

Do not smoke or allow open flames where EPS is stored.

In case of fire, evacuate the area of all personnel except those fighting the fire.

When it is necessary to weld in close proximity to EPS materials, use extreme caution. Sparks and especially molten slag can cause the material to ignite. It is recommended that a second person be on hand to watch for any such occurrences.

FUMES

When subjected to fire, EPS produces carbon monoxide, which is potentially toxic, though the amount is less than that given off by wood. Hydrogen Bromide will also be released from grades that contain Fire Retardaant Additives (FRA).

Eye Contact:

Rinse eye with clean water if dust particles come into contact. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.

Dust Inhalation:

Clear respiratory tract. If irritation continues seek medical advice.

Smoke Inhalation:

In the event that fumes overcome someone, move the person to fresh air. In extreme cases medical attention and oxygen should be administered.

Skin Contact:

Molten material – immediately flood the affected area and adhering molten material with plenty of water. Do not attempt to remove the molten or solidified material from the skin. Seek medical attention.

The recommendations made here are for guidance only. Responsibility for correct health and safety precautions in storing, shaping and using EPS rests with the purchaser who must be aware of and follow all relevant laws and regulations.

Refer to MSDS for additional safety and technical information.
If more information is needed, please contact Hendren Plastics, Inc., Gravette, AR 72736. Phone (479) 787-6222.