What Is Depron Foam?

Depron foam comes in several colors, including white.

Depron foam consists of polystyrene processed into a foam. This foam comes in EPS and XPS varieties and possesses durability and low cost of manufacture. Mainly favored by model builders, the foam also provides insulation for flooring and meat packaging.

Polystyrene

The main material in Depron foam is polystyrene, a vinyl polymer. Manufacturers use polystyrene in many situations because of its low cost and strength. Depron foam manufacturers blow air into the polystyrene to make a foam, much like Styrofoam.

EPS and XPS

EPS refers to the expanded variety of Depron, which is open-celled and porous. XPS refers to the closed-cell and hard-shelled type of Depron favored for model airplane use.

Characteristics

Depron foam's characteristics include light weight, durability and penetrability. Users of the material can easily cut it into a variety of shapes and sizes.

Models

Radio-controlled plane enthusiasts use Depron foam to construct model airplanes. The light weight of Depron allows the planes to fly high while still maintaining elaborate structures and designs. Hobbyists call these planes "foamies."

Other Uses

According to the manufacturer, Depron foam provides floor insulation and material for other arts and crafts projects. The open-cell variety soaks up excess juices as a meat packaging material.

References

• Depron Foam: About
• Polymer Science Learning Center: Polystyrene
• R/C Hobby: How to Work With Depron Foam