Complete Guide on PS (Polystyrene): Types, Grades, Uses, Processing & Global Trends

1. What is PS (Polystyrene)? | Full Form and Definition

PS (Polystyrene) is a lightweight, rigid, and transparent thermoplastic made from the monomer styrene. It is widely used for packaging, insulation, and molded products. It exists in different forms such as GPPS (General Purpose PS), HIPS (High Impact PS), and EPS (Expanded PS).

2. Types and Grades of PS

3. Physical & Chemical Properties

4. Applications of PS

• Packaging
  Disposable containers, food trays, cups, clamshell boxes

• Consumer Products
  Cutlery, toys, stationery items, cosmetic containers

• Electrical & Electronics
  Housings for devices, switchboards, TV panels

• Construction
  Insulation sheets (EPS, XPS), wall panels, protective foam

• Medical
  Test tubes, Petri dishes (non-autoclavable use)

5. Manufacturing & Processing Techniques

• Injection Molding
  For GPPS and HIPS molded parts

• Thermoforming
  Used for disposable food packaging

• Extrusion
  For producing sheets, films, and foams

• Foaming
  EPS and XPS are made via steam expansion or extrusion

6. PS Recycling and Environmental Notes

• PS is recyclable but not biodegradable

• EPS foam can be densified and reused

• Common recycling code: ♶ (Plastic #6)

• Recycled PS is used in:

  • Office supplies

  • Plastic lumber

  • Low-grade packaging

• Collection and separation challenges due to foam bulk

7. Major PS Suppliers & Manufacturers

India:

• Supreme Petrochem

• BASF India

• LG Polymers

• Styrolution India

Global:

• Trinseo

• INEOS Styrolution

• TotalEnergies

• SABIC

• Chi Mei Corporation

• Formosa Chemicals & Fibre Corp.

8. Market Overview of PS

• Global Market Size: Over USD 25 Billion (2024)

• Expected CAGR: ~4% through 2030

• Top Applications: Food packaging, insulation, electronics

• Growth Regions: Asia-Pacific, North America, Middle East

• Challenges:

  • Environmental scrutiny on EPS

  • Growing preference for biodegradable alternatives

9. Trade PS (GPPS, HIPS, EPS) on Plastic4trade

• Source virgin and recycled PS granules, regrind, or scrap

• Post buy and sell listings for GPPS, HIPS, EPS

• Access verified PS resin suppliers, exporters, manufacturers

• Ideal platform for traders, processors, and recyclers

Conclusion

Polystyrene (PS) remains one of the most widely used plastics due to its affordability, versatility, and ease of processing. Whether in its clear, tough, or foam form, it supports diverse industries from packaging to electronics. With active recycling efforts and sustainable innovation, PS continues to evolve in today’s plastic landscape.

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