Polystyrene (PS)
What is polystyrene?
Polystyrene is an amorphous thermoplastic.
We offer polystyrene as sheets of varying thickness in black, white, transparent and a host of other colours.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS)
Expanded polystyrene consists of small, white, airy beads. You might know this material as it is commonly used for packaging.
Impact-resistant polystyrene (SB)
Polystyrene also exits in an impact-resistant version, also known as SB polystyrene. SB stands for styrene and butadiene. You can recognize the SB polystyrene on its colour – it is not transparent. The butadiene in the impact-resistant polystyrene ads viscosity to the plastic making it less stiff than regular polystyrene.
Polystyrene is also included in other plastics. As an example, ABS, which is a mix of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene.
Applications for and properties of polystyrene
Polystyrene is used for instance in:
- Machine parts
- Parts for electronics
- Signs, displays and other POS items.
At Induflex we can produce your items in polystyrene of sheets in various thicknesses in black, white, transparent and many other colours.
For POS purposes as signs or displays we often recommend Vikureen®. Vikureen® is available in many colours and with a shiny and matt finish.
Polystyrene is extremely stiff and resistant to many acids and bases. It is moreover electrically insulating.
Polystyrene is best used at room temperature, since its melting temperature is low.
We recommend polystyrene for low-complexity tasks where there is a desire to lower material costs and at the same time ensure an attractive surface.
Polystyrene is often used in the advertising industry, as well as for machine parts or electronic parts.
The material has low impact resistance and can decompose when exposed to UV rays. It is therefore unsuited to outdoor use.
Polystyrene is not resistant to solvents.
In general, we recommend polystyrene for items with a low complexity, where you can benefit from the low material costs – without compromising on a fine surface.
Processing polystyrene
At Induflex, we can produce your polystyrene parts by milling, laser cutting or cutting by blade.
We supply your finished parts within just a few days – and we are of course ready to help you select the correct material for your needs.
If you have any questions about the processing of polystyrene or the choice of materials, please get in touch.
