Polystyrene

Polystyrene (PS) is produced as an amorphous or partially crystalline thermoplastic made from styrene (vinylbenzene, ethenylbenzene, phenylethene).

As a raw mass, polystyrene exhibits weak heat Resistance, is crystal clear, hard, sensitive to impacts and can be coloured as required. It is prone to stress cracking. Polystyrene can be produced cheaply and has good electrical Conductivity. It can also be electroplated, glued and welded, but is highly flammable. It exhibits a low degree of shrinkage and is therefore suitable for manufacturing near-net-shape components. It is very resistant to alkalis and mineral acids. It is destroyed by non-polar solvents such as gasoline.

To achieve higher impact resistance and improved stability when subjected to temperature fluctuations, rubbery substances (such as rubber) or plasticisers (esters, oils) are added during polymerisation.

Polystyrene is processed into foamed polystyrene known by product names such as Styropor and Styrodur by being expanded. When processed using thermoplastic methods, the Material can be made into products such as switches, bobbins, insulating films, casings and packaging.

Because it is non-toxic, polystyrene can be used freely for packaging meat and fish.