PS (Polystyrene)

What is PS (Polystyrene)?

The material is available in several variants depending on needs – from rigid and transparent GPPS to impact-resistant HIPS and foamed EPS.

Important properties of PS (Polystyrene)

• Light weight and easy to process – PS is one of the lightest types of plastic and is easy to injection mold, extrude and thermoform.
• High rigidity and dimensional stability – Maintains its shape and structure even at low temperatures.
• Good electrical insulation properties – Often used in electronics due to its insulating properties.
• Transparent or tinted – GPPS is completely transparent, while HIPS can be dyed in different colors.
• Smooth surface and good printability – Perfect for packaging and promotional products.
• Cheap and easily accessible – One of the most cost-effective plastic materials on the market.
• Can be recycled (PS6) – Many PS products can be remelted and used again, although recycling is more limited than for example PET.

Different types of PS (Polystyrene) and their uses

• GPPS (General Purpose Polystyrene) – Clear and rigid plastic with a glass-like appearance. Used in CD cases, laboratory equipment and transparent packaging.
• HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) – More impact resistant than GPPS, but slightly less transparent. Used in refrigerator panels, toys and sign materials.
• EPS (Expanded Polystyrene, “frigolite”) – Low weight, high shock absorption and good insulation properties. Used in protective packaging, building insulation and disposable products.
• XPS (Extruded Polystyrene, “cellular plastic”) – Denser and more durable than EPS, with better moisture resistance. Used in building boards, insulation and sign materials.

How do we use PS in our production?

We use PS in several applications where low weight, stiffness and cost-effectiveness are important.

Some of the most common uses are:

• Packaging and disposables – PS is used in plastic lids, disposable packaging and protective packaging.
• Industrial components – HIPS is used in technical parts where lightness and impact resistance are required.
• Laboratory products – GPPS is used in test tubes and transparent measuring cups due to its clarity and chemical resistance.
• Building and insulation materials – EPS and XPS are used for insulation, sound absorption and protective details.
• Advertising and signage materials – PS is often used in advertising signs and displays due to its smooth surface and printability.

Why do we choose PS (Polystyrene)?

Polystyrene is one of the most widely used plastic materials due to its low weight, stiffness and low production cost. It is easy to process and adapt for different applications, making it a key component in many of our products.

To optimize PS for specific needs, it can be modified with:

• UV stabilizers – For longer durability when used outdoors.
• Flame retardant – To meet fire protection requirements in the construction industry.
• Antistatic additives – To reduce dust accumulation in packaging and electronics.

In summary, PS is a versatile and cost-effective plastic material with broad applications in both industry and consumer products.