Styrene Meaning: Definition and Examples
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styrene
[ˈstaɪriːn ]
Definition
chemical compound
Styrene is an organic compound that is used in the production of polystyrene and other polymers. It is a colorless, oily liquid that is volatile and has a distinct smell. Styrene is primarily used in the manufacture of plastics and synthetic rubber.
Synonyms
phenylethylene, vinylbenzene.
Examples of usage
- Styrene is commonly used in the production of plastic containers.
- The industrial uses of styrene are vast, particularly in the automotive industry.
- Health risks have been associated with exposure to styrene, prompting regulatory measures.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Styrene is primarily extracted from petroleum, making it a vital part of modern chemical manufacturing.
- In its natural state, styrene is a colorless liquid that evaporates quickly, revealing its volatile nature.
Industrial Use
- It is a key component in polystyrene, a plastic widely used for packaging materials, toys, and disposable cups.
- Styrene is also involved in the production of resins that help create fiberglass, widely used in construction.
Health and Safety
- While styrene is useful, it's also considered hazardous, leading to regulations around its use and handling.
- Exposure to styrene can occur through inhalation, and efforts are made to ensure safety in workplaces where it is used.
Environmental Impact
- The production and disposal of styrene-based products can lead to environmental concerns, prompting research into sustainable alternatives.
- Efforts are ongoing to reduce styrene waste and enhance recycling methods for products made from it.
Origin of 'styrene'
Main points about word origin
- The name comes from 'styrax', a type of tree resin that was used in ancient times for making perfume.
- It was first discovered in the 1830s by a German chemist, who noted its unique properties.
The word 'styrene' derives from the Greek word 'styrax', which means 'liquid resin'. The compound itself was first identified in the mid-19th century. Styrene has been synthesized and studied since its discovery in 1839 by the German chemist August Wilhelm von Hofmann. In the early 20th century, research into styrene accelerated as chemists began to find its applications in the production of synthetic materials. Its use in polymers and plastics expanded after World War II, correlating with the rise of the modern plastics industry. Today, styrene is produced on a large scale, as it is foundational to many everyday products, contributing significantly to various sectors including packaging, automotive, and consumer goods.