Expandable polystyrene (EPS) is a type of thermoplastic foam that can be expanded by heating to form various shapes and sizes of products. EPS is composed of polystyrene beads or granules that contain a blowing agent and other additives. The most commonly used blowing agent for EPS is pentane, a low-boiling hydrocarbon that can generate gas bubbles when heated.
EPS has many advantages, such as low density, good thermal insulation, sound absorption, shock resistance, water resistance, acid and alkali resistance, etc. EPS is widely used in packaging, insulation, food containers, furniture, appliances, and automotive industries.
Pentane is a colorless, flammable, and volatile liquid that belongs to the alkane family. Pentane has three isomers: n-pentane, isopentane, and neopentane. Pentane is mainly used as a solvent, a fuel, and a blowing agent for EPS and other foams.
The global production of pentane is dominated by a few leading companies, such as Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron, BP, Junyuan Petroleum Group and Total. These companies have advanced technologies, large-scale facilities, and extensive distribution networks to meet the growing demand for pentane, especially in the emerging markets of Asia and Africa.