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What Dissolves Styrofoam?

Styrofoam, a trademarked product created by the DuPont company, is a material made from gas-foamed polystyrene plastic. Although Styrofoam does not break down organically, many chemical solvents can be used to dissolve it. Any molecule having some rings with double-bonds, or more than one ketone group per eight carbons, will likely dissolve Styrofoam.

Acetone
- Nail polish remover contains acetone.
  
  Acetone, a solvent, dissolves Styrofoam on contact. Acetone can be found in nail polish remover and denatured alcohol which is often sold in paint stores. All chemical compounds related to acetone, such as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and methyl isobutal ketone (MIBK), will also dissolve Styrofoam.
Gasoline
- Key compounds in gasoline also dissolve Styrofoam.
  
  The benzene, toluene and xylene in gasoline are what dissolve Styrofoam. These chemicals have a similar structure to the polystyrene molecules. A general rule of chemistry is that chemicals with similar molecular structures tend to dissolve each other. Because Styrofoam and gasoline have similar molecular structures, when the two come into contact, the gasoline breaks down the foam molecules. This releases the air contained in the foam, liquefying it.
Model Glue
- Model kits don't include all-Styrofoam parts because the glue would melt the Styrofoam.
  
  Old-fashioned plastic model glue also contains toluene (CH3)-(C6H5), as well as dissolved polystyrene, which is included as a thickener in the adhesive. The polystyrene in the glue remains liquid because of the toluene. Although not as reactive as acetone or gasoline, plastic model glue will erode solid Styrofoam over time.
Polyester Resins
- Polyester resins are commonly used to make water-faring vessels.
  
  Polyester resins typically used in fiberglass will degrade polystyrene over time. Polyester resins can be found in molding compounds, as well as laser printer toner. Polyester resins can also be found in fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), which is often used in restaurants, kitchens, restrooms and other indoor settings where washable walls are necessary. Polyester resins are also commonly used to make water crafts, like dingies and kayaks.
Dimethyl Sulfoxide
- DMSO is used in pharmaceuticals because it can pass through membranes.
  
  Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a solvent, quickly breaks down Styrofoam. DMSO is a by-product of the wood industry that has been used as a commercial solvent since 1953. It is also used in various pharmaceutical applications.
N-Methyl Pryolidone
- Check your bug repellent for NMP before spraying near Styrofoam.
  
  N-methyl pyrolidone (NMP) is another solvent that will dissolve Styrofoam on contact. NMP is used in the manufacturing of products like pigments, cosmetics, insecticides, herbicides and fungicides, often in place of chlorinated hydrocarbons.

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