Styrene is a colorless, oily liquid that has a sweet smell. It is an important building block in the production of various plastics and resins, such as polystyrene, which is commonly used in packaging materials, insulation, and disposable containers. Styrene is produced from natural sources like crude oil and is also found in some foods, although in very small amounts.
In addition to its industrial uses, styrene is also a subject of health discussions. Exposure to high levels of styrene can lead to health issues, including irritation of the skin and respiratory system. Therefore, safety measures are essential when handling this chemical in manufacturing settings.