Abstract: In the method for reclaiming styrene monomer from polystyrene, polystyrene is mixed with a solvent and heated to approximately 300.degree. C. to 400.degree. C. to depolymerize the polystyrene to produce a styrene monomer fraction and a heavier fraction of partial depolymerization products. The styrene fraction is separated from the heavier fraction to recover the styrene monomer and polystyrene partial depolymerization products. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent comprises a "styrene oil" which results from the incomplete depolymerization of polystyrene, at least a portion of which is recycled to mix with polystyrene. The method is useful in reclaiming styrene monomer from napalm, foamed polystyrene, and other polystyrene products. In the case of reclamation of napalm, the method also includes the steps of separating and recovering benzene and gasoline.

Abstract: In the method for reclaiming styrene monomer from polystyrene, polystyrene is mixed with a solvent and heated to approximately 300.degree. C. to 400.degree. C. to depolymerize the polystyrene to produce a styrene monomer fraction and a heavier fraction of partial depolymerization products. The styrene fraction is separated from the heavier fraction to recover the styrene monomer and polystyrene partial depolymerization products. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent comprises a "styrene oil" which results from the incomplete depolymerization of polystyrene, at least a portion of which is recycled to mix with polystyrene. The method is useful in reclaiming styrene monomer from napalm, foamed polystyrene, and other polystyrene products. In the case of reclamation of napalm, the method also includes the steps of separating and recovering benzene and gasoline.