What is the Difference Between Polystyrene and High Impact Polystyrene?

The main difference between polystyrene and high impact polystyrene (HIPS) is their impact resistance. Polystyrene is a synthetic aromatic hydrocarbon polymer that can be available in solid or foam form and has many applications. HIPS, on the other hand, is a type of polystyrene with a much higher impact strength compared to regular polystyrene.

Some key differences between polystyrene and HIPS include:

• Impact Resistance: HIPS has much higher impact strength compared to regular polystyrene, making it more suitable for applications that require resistance to impacts or shocks.
• Modification: HIPS is a modified form of polystyrene, typically produced by adding around 5-10% rubber or butadiene copolymer, which increases its toughness and impact strength.
• Malleability and Strength: HIPS is both malleable and strong, making it a desirable material for many applications.
• Recyclability: Both HIPS and regular polystyrene are recyclable due to their ability to be remolded.
• Applications: HIPS is commonly used in indoor applications, such as children's toys, hand-made enclosures, handling trays, and bathroom cabinets. It is also used in marketing displays, point-of-sales signs, kiosks, and tubes. Regular polystyrene is commonly used in kitchenware and food packaging applications.

In summary, HIPS is a modified version of polystyrene with significantly higher impact strength, making it suitable for a wider range of applications that require higher durability and resistance to impacts.

Comparative Table: Polystyrene vs High Impact Polystyrene

Here is a table comparing the differences between polystyrene and high impact polystyrene (HIPS):

Polystyrene is a synthetic and aromatic hydrocarbon polymer produced from the monomer styrene. It is available in two forms: solid or foams, and is clear, hard, and brittle. High impact polystyrene, on the other hand, is a type of polystyrene with very high impact strength compared to general polystyrene material. HIPS is less brittle and usually clouded by the addition of acrylonitrile rubber particles, which provide insulating and shock-absorbing properties.