PS

Polystyrene (PS) is a synthetic aromatic polymer with high molecular weight (formula (C₈H₈)_n) made from the monomer styrene. It is hard, transparent and easy to process, which makes it the most widely used plastic. At room temperature, PS is normally a solid thermoplastic but can be melted at higher temperature for moulding or extrusion, then resolidified. As a versatile polymer, PS has become an indispensable part of our modern life. Alfa Chemistry specializes in PS research and is committed to developing high quality PS in different specifications for our customers.

How to Make PS

The manufacturing process of PS involves polymerization of styrene monomers. Initially, styrene monomers are derived from petroleum or natural gas feedstocks. Through a process called suspension polymerization, the monomers are mixed with a polymerization initiator and heated. This leads to the formation of long chains of PS molecules. The resulting PS can be further processed into various forms, including solid sheets, foams, granules, and powders.

Performance Characteristics

PS exhibits several performance characteristics that contribute to its versatility and applicability in various industries. The following are some key performance characteristics of PS:

• Chemical Resistance: PS exhibits good resistance to many chemicals and solvents. This property is valuable in industries that require storage, transportation, or handling of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
• Electrical Insulation: PS possesses excellent electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for applications in the electrical and electronics industry. It can insulate against the flow of electricity and provides stability in electronic components.
• Clarity and Transparency: PS has good optical properties, providing clarity and transparency. This property makes it suitable for applications where visual aesthetics and visibility are important, such as packaging, display cases, and consumer goods.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared with other materials, PS is relatively inexpensive. This makes it a cost-effective choice in many applications.

Applications

As a versatile synthetic polymer, PS has potential applications in various industries. The main applications of PS are described as follows:

• Medical Industry: PS has the advantages of transparency, chemical resistance and easy sterilization, so it can be used in the production of laboratory equipment, including petri dishes, test tubes, syringes, etc.
• Packaging Industry: PS is usually used to produce foam packaging materials that provide cushioning and protection for fragile items during transportation and storage. For example, food packaging, meat/poultry trays and egg cartons are usually made with PS to protect against damage or spoilage.
• Construction Industry: PS plays a vital role in the construction industry. PS foam is famous for its excellent thermal insulation performance and is widely used in the insulation of walls, roofs and floors of buildings.
• Automotive Industry: PS can be used to manufacture many automotive parts, including knobs, dashboards, energy-absorbing door panels and sound dampening foam. In addition, it can be used for child protection seats.
• Appliances Industry: Because PS is inert (doesn't react with other materials) and cost-effective, it is widely used in electronic devices such as air conditioners, coolers, ovens, blenders, vacuum cleaners and so on.

Our Products

Alfa Chemistry provides customers with PS in different material forms. The specific products are as follows:

PS Sheets & Bars

PS Granules & Powders