Styrene

Also known as vinylbenzene, ethenylbenzene, and styrol, styrene is a colorless liquid with chemical formula C₆H₅CH=CH₂. The organic compound has a floral-like smell in smaller concentrations. However, it can have an unpleasant, sharp, and penetrating odor in higher concentrations. Styrene is insoluble in water and is less dense than water.

Chronic or long-term exposure to styrene at higher levels may lead to several health risks, including central nervous system problems and increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma. Many health experts believe it may increase the risk of getting cancer.

Long-term exposure to the organic compound can cause health issues like Central nervous system and kidney effects, headaches, hearing loss, fatigue, weakness, and balance and concentration problems. Individuals exposed to styrene on shorter periods may experience gastrointestinal and respiratory problems and irritations to the skin and eyes.

Several foods contain low levels of styrene, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, meats, and beverages. In smaller amounts, the organic compound poses no threat to human health.

The predominant use of styrene is in the production of plastics and resins. It is also present in many consumer products like cigarettes, household, building, and packing products.

You can safely remove styrene to below 100 ppb through the use of Reverse Osmosis (RO) and granular activated carbon (GAC). Get a whole house water filter system designed to filter out harmful contaminants like styrene. Protect your family from the health effects of chemical compounds with a reliable water filter unit.