PS materials

Polystyrene (PS) is an inexpensive and hard polymer that is used extensively.

Typical Applications

Injection Molding Processing Conditions

Drying

Not required unless stored improperly. If drying is needed, the recommended conditions are 2-3 hours at 80 C [176 F].

Melt Temperature

180 C 280 C [356 F 536 F]; upper limit is 250 C for flame retardant grades [19 158 F]

Mold Temperature

Suggested: 20 C 70 C [68 F 158 F]

Material Injection Pressure

20 60 MPa

Injection Speed

Fast speeds are recommended.

Runners and Gates

All types of conventional gates can be used.

Chemical and Physical Properties

The polymerization of styrene produces general-purpose PS. Most commercial grades are clear, amorphous polymers. PS offers excellent dimensional and thermal stability, optical clarity, and little tendency to absorb moisture. It has good dielectric properties. It is resistant to water and dilute inorganic acids. Strong oxidizing acids, such as concentrated sulfuric acid, attack it, and some organic solvents swell it.

Processing shrinkage is typically between 0.4 0.7%.