Polystyrene foam is a lightweight, rigid material made from expanded polystyrene beads. It is commonly used for packaging, insulation, and disposable food containers due to its excellent thermal insulation properties and shock absorption capabilities. This foam is created by heating polystyrene, which causes the beads to expand and fuse together. While it is effective for many applications, polystyrene foam is not biodegradable and can contribute to environmental pollution if not disposed of properly. Recycling options are available in some areas, but awareness and infrastructure for recycling this material are still developing.