We have been discussing the use of expanded polystyrene 
(EPS, AKA Styrofoam) equipment, along with other topics like our
experience with ammonium nitrate in smokers. over at the 
honeybeeworld.com forum:
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=348&start=50#p1636

Recently, an interesting observation was made in regard to queen
introduction success.  From a small and limited sample, we are 
seeing the possibility that new plastic boxes may cause problems 
with queen acceptance.  Older boxes, not so much.

We love EPS boxes and I have gone over to them entirely, but 
now we are wondering if there could be something to this chance
observation. 

I have been recommending airing out and weathering new boxes
 for some time now, but this seems to bear out my suspicions 
that new EPS equipment outgases a bit at first.  I checked 
and it seems that other than polystyrene, the only other substance 
mentioned in manufacture is pentane gas which is odorless and 
only slightly toxic, but I wonder about mold releases, etc.

Are others on the list using EPS (BeeMax or Swienty) boxes and 
seeing any such effects?

Any plastics engineers or technicians on the list?

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