The other major group of insulation foam is based on polystyrene (PS). There are two types of polystyrene foam as defined by their manufacturing process: Expanded (EPS) and Extruded (XPS).   Like polyurethane-based foams, there are strict flame retardancy standards for PS foam. Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) had been the standard FR for PS foams.

However, due to environmental bioaccumulation concerns, its use has dwindled significantly in favor of the new, safer brominated polymeric FR of LANXESS, Emerald Innovation® 3000. Due to its the large molecular size, Emerald Innovation® 3000 minimizes bioaccumulation concerns.

Its highly designed polymeric backbone of styrene and butadiene coupled with subsequent surgical bromination techniques provide the necessary high temperature stability for processing. Its high bromine content provides all of the required flame retardancy to PS foam without the bioaccumulative concerns of HBCD.