PS (Polystyreen)

PS (Polystyrene)

Plastic

Polystyrene (PS) is a thermoplastic polymer known for its clarity, rigidity, and cost-effectiveness. The material is lightweight, easy to process, and offers an excellent surface gloss. PS is available in both solid and foam forms, making it highly versatile for various industrial applications.
Well-known trade names of PS include Styron®, Novacor®, and Lustrex®. These grades are commonly used in the packaging industry, display technology, and household appliances.

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Properties of PS

High light transmission (~90%), ideal for transparent applications
Lightweight and easy to handle
Excellent surface gloss and aesthetics
Good dimensional stability and shape retention
Easy to process: sawing, milling, drilling, and bonding
Suitable for thermoforming and vacuum forming
Food-safe in certain grades
Limited UV resistance; not recommended for long-term outdoor use
Relatively brittle; sensitive to impact loads

Thanks to these properties, PS is a popular choice for applications where aesthetics and cost-efficiency are important.

Datasheet Title

Technical properties of PS

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Product information and operations

Thickness	Dimensions	Color
0.5 mm	1400x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat
1 mm	2000x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat Zwart mat/mat Spiegel Wit glans/mat
1.5 mm	2000x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat
2 mm	2000x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat Zwart mat/mat Wit glans/mat
3 mm	2000x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat Zwart mat/mat Wit glans/mat
4 mm	2000x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat Zwart mat/mat Wit glans/mat
5 mm	2000x1000 mm	Wit mat/mat Zwart mat/mat Wit glans/mat

Technical properties

Algemeen

Soortelijke massa 1,05 g/cm³

Vochtopname bij normaal klimaat 0,2 %

Brandgedrag HB

Specifieke warmtecapaciteit 1,05 kj/Kg°C

Temperatuurbereik

Minimale gebruikstemperatuur -50°C

Maximale gebruikstemperatuur +75°C

Mechanisch

Treksterkte 22 N/mm²

Rek tot breuk 30 %

E-Modulus 2500 N/mm²

Buigsterkte 50 N/mm²

Slagsterkte 30 Charpy

Shore of kogeldruk hardheid 70 - 80 Shore °D

Wrijvingscoëfficiënt 0,35

Elektrisch

Relatieve elektrische constante 2,6 / 100 Hz

Diëlektrische verliesfactor 0,0001 - 0,0003 tan(..x10⁻³)

Specifieke weerstand > 10^16 Ω cm

Oppervlakte weerstand > 10^14 Ω

Kruipstroomvastheid >300 KC

Doorslagspanning 20 - 30 kV/mm

Thermisch

Kristallijn smeltpunt 240 °C

Warmte geleidbaarheid 0,15 - 0,20 W/m°C

Lineaire uitzettingscoëfficiënt 70 - 80 mm/m°C

Gebruikstemperatuur lange termijn onbelast -50 / +75 °C

Maximale gebruikstemperatuur korte termijn 80 °C

Applications of PS

Displays and advertising boards

Packaging for food and electronics

Housings for household appliances

Lightboxes and lighting fixtures

Disposable tableware and cutlery

Model making and prototyping

Interior elements and decorative panels

Laboratory supplies and medical trays

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Frequently Asked Questions about PS

Is PS suitable for outdoor use?

PS has limited UV resistance and may yellow or become brittle under prolonged sun exposure. For outdoor applications, UV-stabilized grades or alternatives like PMMA are recommended.

Can PS be laser-cut?

Yes, PS lasers cleanly with a sharp edge. Be aware of possible discoloration or odor during processing.

Is PS food-safe?

Certain PS grades are approved for food contact. Always verify the material’s specifications and certifications for food applications.

How does PS behave at high temperatures?

PS has a glass transition around 100 °C. Above this, it softens and may deform, so it’s unsuitable for high-heat applications.

Is PS recyclable?

Yes, PS is recyclable (recycling symbol #6), though local recycling options vary by region and product type.

What are alternatives to PS for higher impact resistance?

For greater toughness, materials such as ABS or polycarbonate are better choices.

Can PS be bonded?

Yes, PS bonds well with suitable solvent-based adhesives. Ensure surfaces are clean and dry for optimal adhesion.