Skip to main content
SV

Polystyrene

Polystyrene is a thermoplastic resin that has many applications such as for construction, electronics, household appliances, toys, disposables (such as cups and cutlery) and packaging.

Polystyrene-banner.jpg

Polystyrene is a thermoplastic resin obtained from the polymerization of styrene monomer.  Polystyrene has many applications, including construction, electronics, household appliances, toys, disposables (such as cups and cutlery) and packaging. 

There are two basic types of polystyrene : (i) crystal polystyrene (straight, or general purpose polystyrene  (‘‘GPPS’’)); and (ii) high impact polystyrene (‘‘HIPS’’).   GPPS is a more elastic plastic used in sectors like food packaging, while HIPS is a more durable plastic used in household appliances such as refrigerators. 

Polystyrene is created by combining benzene (an aromatic hydrocarbon) with ethylene.

Learn more

Product Finder

INEOS products make a significant contribution to saving life, improving health and enhancing standards of living for people around the world.

Businesses

INEOS Styrolution

INEOS Styrolution is the leading global styrenics producer, with a focus on styrene monomer, polystyrene, ABS standard and styrenic specialties.

Base Chemicals

Base chemicals include ethylene, propylene, benzene and toluene, together with butadiene and butylenes, which form the basis of other products such as polyethylene and ethanol.

Packaging

Cost, shelf life, security, sustainability and aesthetics all shape consumers’ buying decisions – a choice that can be influenced as much by the package as its contents. We provide innovative products to meet the needs of our packaging customers' worldwide.