What is the Difference Between Styrofoam and Thermocol?

Styrofoam and Thermocol are both types of expanded polystyrene (EPS), but they are different in their composition and applications. Some key differences between Styrofoam and Thermocol are:

1. Density: Styrofoam is denser than Thermocol. This difference in density can be attributed to Styrofoam having fewer air pockets due to its manufacturing process.
2. Brand Names: Styrofoam is a trademark brand of polystyrene owned by The Dow Chemical Company, while Thermocol is a brand name for expanded polystyrene foam.
3. Manufacturing Process: Styrofoam is made through an extrusion process, while Thermocol is made through molding.
4. Water Absorption: Styrofoam absorbs less water than Thermocol. On average, Thermocol absorbs 2-4% of its volume, while Styrofoam absorbs only 0.5% of its volume.
5. Applications: Styrofoam is useful in insulation, packaging, food containers, beverage cups, egg cartons, and disposable plates and trays. Thermocol, on the other hand, is used in disposable trays, cups, packaging material, containers, and insulation.
6. Structure: Styrofoam has a light blue color and contains about 98% air, making it lightweight and buoyant. Thermocol is a thermoplastic polymer of styrene that is capable of being molded into objects.

In summary, Styrofoam and Thermocol are both expanded polystyrene materials, but they have different densities, manufacturing processes, and applications. Styrofoam is denser and more rigid, while Thermocol is more lightweight and moldable.

Comparative Table: Styrofoam vs Thermocol

Styrofoam and Thermocol are both types of polymer materials made from polystyrene, but they have different properties and applications. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between Styrofoam and Thermocol:

Styrofoam is more rigid, brittle, and has excellent gamma radiation resistance, good electrical properties, and poor chemical and UV resistance. On the other hand, Thermocol is lightweight, durable, moisture-resistant, and can be molded into different shapes, making it a good shock absorber.