Modification of Polystyrene Based Composites for Environment Sustainability: A Review

Abstract

Polystyrene (PS) being a non-biodegradable polymer is brought under application over the world in many ways in our day-to-day life to make it easy however it generates an enormous challenge to the components of our environment viz. soil, water, air etc. thus leading to health issues in humans and other living components of earth. This review details and compares the fabrication, application and suitability of various composites of PS with biodegradable materials viz. starch, bagasse lignin, fibers, etc. as to combat the hazardous impact of PS to environment and its valuable constituents. These biodegradable materials not only modify the PS physically but also it affects the composition which enables these composite materials to be acceptable for consumption without spoiling nature. The numerous compositions are studied for their diverse applications and biodegradability. The listed composites express the route to curtail the impacts of hazardous synthetic polymers from the environment and thus paving the path for secure and harmless future for coming generation.

Synthesis and properties of Sulphonated Polystyrene, Their New Composites and IPNs

“…Several percentages of carbon black and Nano Silica (2.5,5 and 7.5) % related to SPS were added to the polymer solution with continuous stirring to get a homogenous solution. The mixture was then casting uniformly on polyethylene mold and kept for (3)(4)(5) days to full drying.…”

“…PS has many unique properties and can be used for any think from take-away food containers to multi-pack yogurts [2,3] Like many other plastics. PS is non-biodegradable polymers [4,5] PS comes in two forms: solid and foamed, and it is a very versatile material. Polystyrene (PS) foam has been widely used as an insulator and in packaging.…”

Statistical analysis of the substitution of inorganic fibers and fillers with vegetable fibers and fillers in polystyrene composites

“…Different types of fibers and fillers can be used to promote reinforcement in polymer composites. 10 The mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites usually depends on the strength and modulus of the fiber; the chemical resistance and stability of the polymer matrix (properties of the constituent phases); their relative amounts, sizes, and geometry of the dispersed phase; and the achievement of resin-fiber bonding to transfer stress across the interface region (chemical affinity and interface region). 11 Owing to the hydrophilic characteristics of plant fibers, their use in predominantly hydrophobic matrix polymeric composites can result in poor interface performance between the matrix and fiber.…”

“…Combining it with other materials to form composites can improve its properties. Different types of fibers and fillers can be used to promote reinforcement in polymer composites 10 …”

Preparation and characterization of short date palm mat (DPM) fiber reinforced polystyrene composites: Effect of gamma radiation

“…Polystyrene is the most extensively used synthetic plastic materials in the world which displays good mechanical properties, dimensional stability, electrical insulation properties, anticorrosive properties, transparency and easy processing [ 3 , 4 ]. Hence, polystyrene finds use in a variety of applications for instance refrigerator liners, home appliances, food packaging, vending cups, cousion materials during transportation of products, automotive and engineering industry etc [ [4] , [5] , [6] ].…”