EPS Beads

What is the EPS Styrofoam?

EPS beads stand for Expanded Polystyrene. They are a type of expandable polystyrene plastic containing a gas called pentane, which is highly flammable. These beads are typically produced in a round shape, white in color, and are extremely lightweight. The main component of the beads is polystyrene, accounting for 90–95%, while the remaining 5–10% consists of blowing agents such as pentane or carbon dioxide.

EPS Foam Production Process

Raw EPS beads are expanded at a temperature of 90°C, increasing in volume by 20 to 50 times. Next, they are placed into heated molds at 100°C for a suitable period of time.

This process produces the finished product known as EPS beads. Therefore, this product line is also referred to as construction foam or EPS foam. Molded EPS foam is made from expanded raw EPS beads, forming a structure that contains 3–6 million small foam beads bonded together in a honeycomb pattern. Each small bead cell, after expansion, contains 98% air inside.

What Are EPS Beads Commonly Used For?

EPS beads actually have a wide range of applications that many people might not know. Besides being used as stuffing for pillows, mesh chairs, or seahorse-shaped cushions, they are also used for decoration, gift boxes, packaging, and even in water filtration systems.

Common uses include:

Filling raffle boxes or gift boxes.

Making beautiful handmade flowers, used for gifts or decorative purposes.

Industrial applications, such as water filtration. Safe for use in clean water systems.

Protecting goods during transportation.

Cushioning fragile products in shipping boxes.

Creating artificial snow or toys for children.

These are just some of the reasons people choose EPS beads. But there are additional advantages:

Lightweight: EPS beads are very light and easy to handle, unlike cotton stuffing.

Cost-effective: Only 2–3 kg of EPS beads is enough to fill a large-sized chair, whereas cotton requires 7–10 kg and costs significantly more.

Low maintenance: EPS beads do not require cleaning and can be easily topped up if they compress, unlike cotton, which can absorb odors and needs to be fluffed or replaced when flattened.

Flexibility: While cotton-filled bean bags may feel softer, EPS beads offer more flexibility and adaptability in shape.