Reduce Styrene Release in Facilities Producing Styrene-based Products
Styrene, or ethenylbenzene, is commonly used to produce polystyrene plastics and resins, synthetic rubber, glass-fiber-reinforced plastic products, and various copolymers. However, it’s important to note that styrene is toxic and is expected to be a human carcinogen. Therefore, minimizing or eliminating styrene-based releases into the environment is crucial.
Styrene exposure can lead to various health-related issues. Short-term exposure can irritate the mucous membranes and eyes. On the other hand, chronic exposure or long-term exposure can significantly impact the proper functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). Common symptoms of chronic styrene exposure include CNS dysfunction, hearing loss, and peripheral neuropathy. Additionally, long-term exposure can cause headaches, fatigue, weakness, and depression.
To address these health concerns, it’s in the best interest of all stakeholders to reduce styrene releases into the environment. Companies can take several measures to achieve this, such as optimizing operating practices, modifying processes, replacing styrene solvents with acetone and water-based cleaners, and expanding product lines using polyethylene-based products instead of styrene-based products.
For instance, implementing these P2 measures reduced a facility in Ohio's styrene-related emissions by 59%.