Can foam boards cause a chemical reaction?
Recently I was told SM foam may have a chemical reaction to other plastic products when used to insulate underground that can negatively effect the internal air quality in my home. Have you heard anything about that?
Rigid foam panels containing styrofoam are a petroleum product that are produced using chemical blowing agents that can be harmful to human health. They are commonly used in the building industry and not everyone experiences immediate reactions but yes, many people do experience extreme and dangerous effects from this type of foam panels as they off-gas. There are better foams that don't off-gas, like EPS foam (that is often mistakenly called styrofoam, just to confuse things) and non-toxic alternatives to foam - specifically mineral wool insulation - read more here:
The difference between Polyiso, EPS & XPS Foam Insulation & Styrofoam
Check out the following as well, it can help you find safer alternatives to everything from building products to indoor cleaning products, as well as other health issues you man not even know about such as having high levels of radon gas in homes. If you’re experiencing adverse reactions to some building products then you may experience the same with others - if the air in your home is polluted and causing health issues, consider looking into a high quality air purifier.
Natural and safe building products - how to ensure safe indoor air quality in homes