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.