Creating Your Own Styrofoam Formula

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the chemical formula of Styrofoam is C8H8. Styrofoam, the brand name of a type of polystyrene, contains equal parts carbon (C) and hydrogen (H). The manufacture of true polystyrene requires hazardous chemicals and equipment that should be used only in a supervised chemical lab. An imitation formula uses more readily available ingredients and can be made at home.

Step 1

Dissolve 2 tsp. borax in 1/2 cup (4 oz.) water. Set aside.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, mix 1/4 cup (2 oz.) Elmer’s Glue and 1/4 cup (2 oz.) water.

Step 3

Pour Elmer’s glue solution into air-tight, gallon-size bag.

Step 4

Add 3 tbsp. of the borax/water solution to the Elmer’s glue solution but do not mix.

Step 5

Add the micro-beads and bean bag filler. Seal bag and knead until thoroughly mixed.

Step 6

Let stand for 15 minutes then knead for a few more minutes. It should feel somewhat firm but still malleable.

Step 7

Remove mixture from the bag and work it into desired shape. Let it dry for three to four hours.

Things Needed

• 2 tsp. borax
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup Elmer’s glue
• 1/4 cup water
• Air-tight plastic bag, gallon size
• 2/3 cups micro-beads (1mm in diameter)
• 1 cup 1/8-inch bean bag filler beads

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)

Borax can be found in the laundry aisle at your grocery store. Micro-beads may be found at a craft store. Bean bag filler can be bought on eBay. 5/3 cups of polystyrene beads can be used in place of the micro-beads and bean bag filler. You can make an approximation of the beads by grating polystyrene cups.

Warning

Ingredients could cause harm if swallowed.