PS - Polystyrene
Versatile thermoplastic resin for multiple applications
Interested in this product?
Contact our team for pricing and availability information.
Request a QuotePolystyrene (PS) is a versatile homopolymer resulting from polymerization of styrene monomer, with global production exceeding 14 million tonnes annually. This thermoplastic resin accounts for approximately 7% of the global plastics market.
The global polystyrene market was valued at approximately $28 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% through 2030, according to Grand View Research. Packaging applications represent the largest market segment, consuming approximately 35% of total polystyrene production.
Polystyrene complies with ASTM D4203 specifications for styrene-rubber thermoplastic blends and ISO 1622 standards for plastics-polystyrene molding materials. For food contact applications, PS meets FDA 21 CFR 177.1640 regulations.
This is a group of thermoplastic resin, whose characteristic lies in its flexibility and easy moldability under the action of heat, which leaves it in liquid or pasty shape. It is the raw material of disposable cups, closures for beer barrels, household items and packaging.
The expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a rigid plastic with several forms and applications. It presents itself as a molded foam composed of an agglomeration of granules. It is widely used in construction and in the manufacture of coolers for storing food and beverages. According to the EPS Industry Alliance, expanded polystyrene comprises approximately 10% of total polystyrene consumption and offers thermal insulation values of R-4 per inch of thickness. Its presence in the consumer market, where its share has been growing, is strengthened by its lightness, its thermal insulation capacity and its low cost. During the production process the raw material undergoes a physical transformation consisting of three steps: pre-expansion, intermediate storage and molding.
Specifications
| PS Crystal | Amorphous homopolymer, hard, excellent brightness and high refractive index. May receive lubricant additives to processing aid. Used in low cost items, particularly disposable parts such as cups. |
| PS Heat Resistant | High molecular weight, which makes processing more difficult. Suitable for making machine or cars components, radios and TV cabinets, air conditioning parts, internal and external parts of appliances and electronics, fans and blowers. |
| High Impact PS | Contains 5 to 10% of elastomer (rubber), which is incorporated by mechanical mixture or directly in the polymerization process. Widely used in the manufacture of home appliances (refrigerator parts) and toys. |
| Expanded PS | Semi-rigid foam. The plastic is polymerized in the presence of the blowing agent otherwise it may be subsequently absorbed. During processing of heated material it volatilizes generating cells in the material. Low density and good thermal insulation. Applications: trays of grocery packaging, protective equipment, thermal insulation, flotation for surfboards, isothermal refrigerators, etc. |
Features
Easy Processing
Easy processing by hot molding
Easy Coloring
Easy coloring
Low Cost
Low cost
Glass-Like Properties
Similar to glass
Chemical Resistance
High resistance to alkalis and acids
Low Density
Low density and moisture absorption
Limited Resistance
Low resistance to organic solvents, heat and weather
Applications
- Disposable cups and tableware
- Closures for beer barrels
- Household items
- Packaging materials
- CD jewel boxes
- Stationery
- Home appliances parts
- Toys
- Construction insulation
- Food and beverage coolers
- Protective equipment
- Thermal insulation
- Surfboard flotation
- Machine components
- Electronic device cabinets
- Air conditioning parts
Frequently Asked Questions
Polystyrene (PS) is a versatile thermoplastic homopolymer resulting from polymerization of styrene monomer, with global production exceeding 14 million tonnes annually. It is characterized by easy moldability under heat and is used for disposable cups and tableware, food packaging, household items, CD cases, toys, appliance parts, construction insulation (EPS), and protective packaging.
Syntex America offers four main types of polystyrene: PS Crystal (GPPS) - an amorphous, hard homopolymer with excellent brightness for disposable items; PS Heat Resistant - high molecular weight grade for automotive and electronics components; High Impact PS (HIPS) - containing 5-10% elastomer for refrigerator parts and toys; and Expanded PS (EPS) - foam insulation for construction and protective packaging.
GPPS (General Purpose Polystyrene or PS Crystal) is an amorphous, transparent homopolymer with excellent brightness and high refractive index, ideal for low-cost disposable items but with lower impact resistance. HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) contains 5-10% elastomer (rubber) that significantly increases impact resistance, making it suitable for durable applications like refrigerator parts, toys, and appliance housings, though it loses transparency.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight foam material used for: construction thermal insulation (offering R-4 per inch insulation value), protective packaging for electronics and fragile items, food coolers and isothermal containers, food service trays and containers, flotation devices for surfboards and marine applications, and acoustic insulation. EPS represents approximately 10% of total polystyrene consumption.
Yes, Polystyrene meets FDA 21 CFR 177.1640 regulations for food contact applications. PS Crystal and food-grade EPS are widely used for disposable cups, food packaging trays, and beverage containers. The material is non-toxic, chemically inert with food products, and is approved for direct food contact when manufactured according to FDA guidelines.