SAN (Styrene-Acrylonitrile)

Styrene-Acrylonitrile (SAN) is a transparent, rigid and chemical-resistant thermoplastic that is often used as an alternative to polystyrene (PS) or acrylic (PMMA).

What is SAN (Styrene-Acrylonitrile)?

The material has better mechanical properties than regular PS and is used in household products, cosmetic packaging and technical components.

Important properties of SAN (Styrene-Acrylonitrile)

  • High transparency – Similar to glass and used in applications where good light transmission is required.
  • Better chemical resistance than PS – Resists many fats, oils and cleaning agents.
  • Rigid and dimensionally stable – Retains its structure even under mechanical stress.
  • Low water absorption – SAN is minimally affected by moisture, making it ideal for laboratory equipment and food packaging.
  • Easy to injection mold – Can be processed through traditional plastic processes such as injection molding and extrusion.
  • Good scratch resistance – More resistant to scratches than PS.
  • Can be dyed – Available in both transparent and colored variants for design and packaging solutions.

Different types of SAN (Styrene-Acrylonitrile) and their uses

  • Cosmetics packaging – SAN is used in bottles and jars for creams, makeup and skin care products.
  • Laboratory equipment – Thanks to its chemical resistance, SAN is used in measuring cups, test tubes and containers.
  • Food packaging – Used in cutlery, plastic glasses and containers where chemical resistance and transparency are important.
  • Kitchen products – SAN is used in mixer bowls, coffee maker jugs and other household products.
  • Hard plastic parts – Used in technical components that need to be transparent and rigid.

How do we use SAN in our production?

We use SAN in products where transparency, chemical resistance and mechanical strength are important properties.

Some of the most common uses are:

  • Packaging and cosmetic products – SAN is used in exclusive plastic packaging that requires a glass-like finish.
  • Technical components – Thanks to its strength, SAN is used in certain industrial plastic parts.
  • Kitchen-ware – SAN is used in coffee pots, measuring cups and durable kitchen utensils.
  • Laboratory equipment – Due to its chemical resistance, SAN is used in containers and test tubes.

Why do we choose SAN (Styrene-Acrylonitrile)?

SAN is an excellent option when we need a plastic material that combines transparency, rigidity and chemical resistance. It is stronger than PS and has a higher scratch resistance than many other transparent plastics.

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

  • UV stabilizers – For longer life when used outdoors.
  • Anti-reflective treatment – For improved optical performance.
  • Coloring – To create unique design solutions.

In summary, SAN is a versatile and durable plastic material used in both consumer and industrial applications.

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