Summary
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a polymer with an extensive applicability, however the destination of its residues is little explored. Due to its negative consequences against the environment, an effective application for this waste is required. An example of this segment is the use of expanded polystyrene residue as the polymeric base of paint, aiming areas such as civil construction and wood industry. This research intends to analyze the use of different kinds of polymeric plasticizers, considering the use of aromatic and natural solvents. The main objective is to analyze the influence of each material taking into account properties like elasticity and adhesion on wood substrate. The studied plasticizers were: thermoplastic copolymers ESBR, SIS, SBS, SEBS and the epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO). The obtained results showed that the copolymer SEBS presented the most satisfactory performance, being compatible with the expanded polystyrene, providing a homogeneous base resin, which will be used for the paint formulation, considering the addition of pigments and additives.