Polystyrene is a plastic formed from hydrocarbon molecules that is small, lightweight and ideal for a variety of applications. From stuffed toys to packaging materials to insulation sheets, these beads can be used for all sorts, not just bean bag filler!
At Eccleston & Hart Ltd, we specialise in manufacturing and supplying high quality expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads and blocks for a wide range of industries. Using CAD/CAM technology and hot wire cutting machines, we ensure our products are produced quickly, accurately and cost effectively.
Popular Uses of Polystyrene Beads
One of the most popular uses for polystyrene beads is in pillows, cushions and pet beds. These beads are also a popular choice for stuffed animals, other toys and packaging. They are often sold as bean bag polystyrene beads, bean bag filling, packing beads, packing balls or small polystyrene pellets.
How Are Polystyrene Beads Made?
The polymers start off as hard plastic balls measuring 0.5mm in diameter and are put through a steam process to fill the molecule with air and water vapor to form a larger, softer EPS bead. The beads can be expanded again using a similar process to create a lower density material. Once the beads are expanded, they can be joined together in a molding process to form large blocks, and then cut into different products such as building insulation or packaging.
At Eccleston & Hart, we sell EPS beads in up to 20cu ft packs, with pumped articulated truck loads also available for high-volume customers. We also use advanced block moulding techniques to turn these expanded beads into bespoke solutions for packaging, construction, exhibitions and more.
How Do You Make Polystyrene?
Polystyrene is a synthetic polymer derived from petroleum. Through a process called polymerisation, styrene molecules are bonded together into long chains, forming polystyrene. It can be expanded into beads (EPS Expanded Polystyrene) and then molded into blocks.
At Eccleston & Hart Ltd, we specialise in EPS block moulding and use cutting edge machinery to transform raw material into high quality polystyrene products that are functional, reliable and cost effective.
The Advantages of Polystyrene Beads
The main advantage of polystyrene beads is their strength, durability and lightweight properties. They also have thermal properties, are shock absorbent, moisture resistant and compression resistant.
The Uses of Polystyrene Beads
- Beanbag, cushion and pillow filler
- Soft toy filler
- Product packaging (including packing beads, pellets and packing balls)
- Construction
- Artificial snow flakes for arts, crafts, theatre and display decoration
Polystyrene beads can be shredded or cut to resemble snow flakes, making them a popular choice for film sets, theatre productions, exhibitions and seasonal displays.
How to Dissolve Polystyrene Beads
Polystyrene is not soluble in water but it does dissolve in certain organic solvents such as acetone, benzene or toluene. When placed in acetone, for example, polystyrene beads collapse and dissolve into a sticky gel-like material. This reaction is often used in recycling demonstrations, science experiments and construction.
⚠️ Safety Note: These solvents are flammable and release harmful fumes. Always handle with care in a well ventilated area using protective equipment.
At Eccleston & Hart, we do not use solvents for recycling. Instead, we rely on specialist granulators to break down waste polystyrene responsibly so it can be repurposed into ultra low-density EPS blocks.
How Eccleston and Hart Recycle Polystyrene Beads
There are two main methods we use to recycle polystyrene waste:
- Scrap material is broken down using a granulator and then the new bead is incorporated before block moulding.
- Scrap material which cannot be reused on-site is compacted to produce bricks. Once formed, these bricks are sent to a recycling depot where they are transformed into a variety of different plastic products such as garden furniture, picture frames and roof tiles.
Why Choose Eccleston & Hart For Your Polystyrene Beads
With decades of experience in polystyrene block moulding, Eccleston & Hart is one of the UK’s most established EPS manufacturers. We believe in providing our customers with quality that stands the test of time and ensuring our polystyrene is used as efficiently as possible.
To discuss your requirements, contact our team on 0121 683 0300 today and we will create a bespoke polystyrene solution tailored to your project.
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