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	White matt/matt
1 mm	2000x1000 mm	White matt/matt Black matt/matt Mirror White gloss/matt
1.5 mm	2000x1000 mm	White matt/matt
2 mm	2000x1000 mm	White matt/matt Black matt/matt White gloss/matt
3 mm	2000x1000 mm	White matt/matt Black matt/matt White gloss/matt
4 mm	2000x1000 mm	White matt/matt Black matt/matt White gloss/matt
5 mm	2000x1000 mm	White matt/matt Black matt/matt White gloss/matt

Technical properties

General

Specific Gravity 1,05 g/cm³

Moisture Absorption under Standard Climate 0,2 %

Flammability HB

Specific Heat Capacity 1,05 kj/Kg°C

Temperature Range

Minimum Service Temperature -50°C

Maximum Service Temperature +75°C

Mechanical

Tensile Strength 22 N/mm²

Elongation at Break 30 %

E-Modulus 2500 N/mm²

Flexural Strength 50 N/mm²

Impact Strength 30 Charpy

Shore or Ball Indentation Hardness 70 - 80 Shore °D

Coefficient of Friction 0,35

Electrical

Relative Permittivity (Dielectric Constant) 2,6 / 100 Hz

Dielectric Loss Factor 0,0001 - 0,0003 tan(..x10⁻³)

Volume Resistivity > 10^16 Ω cm

Surface Resistivity > 10^14 Ω

Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) >300 KC

Dielectric Strength 20 - 30 kV/mm

Thermal

Crystalline Melting Point 240 °C

Thermal Conductivity 0,15 - 0,20 W/m°C

Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion 70 - 80 mm/m°C

Continuous Service Temperature (unloaded) -50 / +75 °C

Maximum Short-Term Service Temperature 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

Made with CutWise

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.