a method and apparatus are provided for densifying expanded polymer materials such as styrofoam for transportation between collection centers and manufacturing plants for recycling . the method and apparatus use only pressure and time with no addition of heat which would render the expanded polymers non - recyclable or impure . the method and apparatus rely on mechanical creep over a relatively long time with no binding materials or restraining packaging which would have to be removed prior to remanufacturing . the method and apparatus compress the expanded polymer material in three directions and confine it for the period of time required for the polymers to mechanically creep to a permanent block having a high density . the high density will not expand significantly after the block is released , unconfined into the ambient . the blocks may be easily loaded for efficient , economical transportation .