Polystyrene (PS)
Polystyrene is an amorphous, glassy polymer that is generally rigid and relatively inexpensive.
Unfilled polystyrene has a sparkle appearance and is often referred to as crystal PS or general purpose polystyrene (GPPS). High impact polystyrene grades (HIPS) are produced by adding rubber or butadiene copolymer, which increases the toughness and impact strength of the polymer. Polystyrenes possess good flow properties.
General purpose polystyrene, GPPS, is the low-cost member of the family. Properties of the amorphous polymer include hardness, rigidity, optical clarity, dimensional stability, and excellent processibility.
High-impact polystyrene, HIPS , is generally recognized as the best styronic material for load bearing applications. Typical applications include food packaging (cups, lids, take-out containers), house wares, office products, and video and audio cassettes. Ignition-resistant plastic grades are used in radio and TV housings.
Polystyrenes can easily be processed by Injection Moulding, and ProPlastix can advise on all your specific applications.
