Polystyrene
A Strategic Polymer for Global
About Polystyrene
Polystyrene (PS) is a synthetic aromatic polymer derived from the monomer styrene (C₆H₅–CH=CH₂). Due to its carbon chain structure with phenyl side groups, it exhibits unique physical properties, including rigidity, transparency, and brittleness. As a thermoplastic polymer, it softens upon heating, allowing for high moldability and formability. Polystyrene is stable in water but soluble in organic solvents such as benzene and chloroform, making it suitable for a variety of industrial and chemical processes.
Types of Polystyrene
- General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS)
Transparent, rigid, and brittle
Applications: disposable containers, CDs/DVDs, laboratory equipment - High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)
Produced by adding butadiene rubber
Higher impact and mechanical resistance
Applications: automotive parts, refrigerator and TV housings, toys - Expanded Polystyrene (EPS / Styrofoam)
Consists of gas-containing beads that expand when heated
Lightweight, with thermal and acoustic insulation
Applications: product packaging, foam food containers, building insulation, helmets - Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
Similar to EPS but denser and more durable
Applications: building insulation, roof and wall panels
Properties of Polystyrene
- Transparent or opaque, rigid or foamed
- Impact-resistant (HIPS)
- Thermal and acoustic insulation (EPS/XPS)
- Moldable and paintable
Applications of Polystyrene
- Packaging: disposable containers, food and product packaging, electronic component protection
- Construction: lightweight blocks, insulation panels, building foams
- Automotive: interior parts, dashboards
- Medical and Laboratory Equipment: sterile containers, plates, test tubes, drug boxes
- Electronics: protective casings and housings
- Toys and Modeling: toys, educational and architectural models
Production Process
Polystyrene production begins with styrene monomer, which is primarily derived from ethylbenzene. Ethylbenzene itself is produced through the reaction of benzene and ethylene in the presence of a catalyst. Ethylbenzene is then converted to styrene via dehydrogenation at 600–650°C in the presence of an iron (Fe₂O₃) catalyst.
Styrene polymerization can be performed by bulk, solution, or suspension methods:
- Bulk polymerization: the monomer polymerizes with an initiator; this is the simplest and most common industrial method.
- Solution polymerization: allows finer control over polymer properties but is more costly.
- Suspension polymerization: the monomer is dispersed as small droplets in water and is mainly used for producing polystyrene beads or granules.
After production, polystyrene is processed into granules, foam, or finished parts and distributed through major suppliers to various industries.
Market Trends
Market analysis indicates increasing demand for polystyrene across multiple industries. The estimated global annual growth rates are:
- Polystyrene overall: ~1.06%
- EPS: ~8.6%
- Polystyrene packaging: ~4.5%
Environmental Considerations
Polystyrene is non-biodegradable and can persist in nature for hundreds of years. In natural environments, it breaks down into microplastics, which may enter the food chain and affect ecosystem health. Research indicates that some enzymes and microorganisms can partially degrade polystyrene, but the efficiency of this process is limited. Consequently, chemical recycling (depolymerization) has emerged as an effective method to recover pure styrene from polystyrene, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Proper recycling and management of polystyrene consumption can mitigate environmental effects and support sustainable development across various industries.
Mazdaco
A Leading Company in the Production and International Export of Polystyrene
Our trading company, with a team of skilled and professional experts, stands as a leading producer of Polystyrene (PS) in Iran. Leveraging extensive experience, innovation, and advanced formulations, we supply our products for industrial applications and international trade, establishing ourselves as a reliable and trusted global business partner.
Our production and trading group manufactures Polystyrene in GPPS (General Purpose Polystyrene), HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene), EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), and XPS (Extruded Polystyrene) grades, ensuring that the diverse needs of packaging, construction, automotive, laboratory equipment, and consumer product industries are fully met.
We guarantee that each shipment of Polystyrene maintains consistent mechanical strength, thermal stability, and optimal performance. Every product is accompanied by complete technical and legal documentation, including TDS, COA, and MSDS, fully compliant with international safety and quality standards.
The Mazdaco export team provides flexible and professional export services, including a variety of delivery terms (FOB, CIF, CFR, DDP, and EXW), customs clearance, comprehensive documentation, and real-time container tracking. Mazdaco products are supplied in granules, sheets, or foam, ensuring full compatibility with industrial processing lines and safe, efficient transportation.
As your trusted business partner, Mazdaco guarantees:
Timely and reliable delivery to international markets
- High-quality industrial Polystyrene produced directly from the factory
- Complete transparency in technical specifications and product standards
- Flexible commercial contracts and secure payment options
- Comprehensive logistics support, customs clearance, and shipment tracking
By adhering to international standards and providing professional after-sales services, Mazdaco has solidified its presence in global markets, becoming a symbol of trust and credibility in the Polystyrene industry. The company ensures that every export transaction is conducted with the highest quality, safety, and superior performance, enabling customers worldwide to benefit from our products with complete confidence.
