What Are Styrene Fumes?

Styrene (C6H5CHCH2) is primarily a flammable, synthetic chemical. It is a colourless to yellow liquid that evaporates easily and releases a sweet smell. Styrene is an essential element in making many products due to its strength, flexibility and lightweight.

What is styrene used for?

Styrene is an adaptable chemical that is used in the manufacture of materials that are then used to produce a variety of products across a wide range of industries. This includes:

• Polystyrene (PS) – used for packaging, toys, and consumer electrics.
• Acrylonitrile-Butadiene Styrene (ABS) – used in the automotive applications and electronics.
• Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) – used in latexes and elastomers such as car tyres, belts and hoses for machinery.

Industries that use styrene

Styrene is used across a wide range of industries, including:

• Construction
• Healthcare
• Electronics
• Automotive
• Packaging

Are styrene fumes harmful?

Styrene fumes can be harmful. Exposure to styrene is most likely to occur indoors from inhaling air that is contaminated with styrene vapours, which can subsequently affect the nervous system. Individuals who work where styrene is used or manufactured can be exposed to these hazardous fumes and vapours unless their workplace is correctly ventilated.

The dangers of styrene fumes

Acute exposure to styrene fumes can cause the following symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Ataxia
• Irritation to nose and throat
• Weakness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting

How can a styrene fume extractor help?

Workers and employers are advised to practice the appropriate occupational health conducts. This may include wearing protective clothing and respirators whilst maintaining a well-ventilated space.

At Purex, we recommend using the Digital 400i  fume extraction system. Specifically designed to help remove hazardous fumes from your working environment, the 400i benefits from automatic electronic flow and a dedicated control, monitoring and display system. Popular across the electronics, healthcare and 3D printing industries, this industrial fume extractor is essential for those working with styrene

.

How Purex can help

Here at Purex, we provide an excellent level of service and support, including our 24-hour technical support service and start-to-end projects. Get in touch with our expert team today to find out more about our fume extractors for a variety of industries, or learn more about how Purex can help with your fume extraction needs.