Polystyrene is a versatile plastic that can be rigid or foamed. It is a low cost member of the plastics family. It also generally recognized as the best styrenic material.

 

Polybutadiene is added during polymerization it can become chemically bonded to the polystyrene, forming a graft copolymer which helps to incorporate normal polybutadiene into the final mix, resulting in high-impact polystyrene or HIPS, often called "high-impact plastic" in advertisements.

 

Common applications include use in toys and product casings. HIPS is usually injection molded in production. Autoclaving polystyrene can compress and harden the material.

Main Characteristics	Typical Applications
Good rigidity High impact strength Dimensional stability Excellent processability	Packaging (food, medical/pharmaceutical) Refrigerator liners Sign-making display articles. Household items Jewel case Stationery