Polystyreendivinylbenzene

Polystyreendivinylbenzene is a crosslinked polymer produced by copolymerizing styrene with divinylbenzene (DVB). In the network, styrene units are connected through DVB crosslinks, creating a three-dimensional, insoluble matrix. The crosslink density—and thus porosity, rigidity, and swelling behavior—depends on the DVB content and polymerization conditions.

Synthesis and structure: Radical polymerization of styrene in the presence of DVB yields beads or bulk resin. Processing methods include solution, suspension, or emulsion polymerization. DVB is typically used at a few percent by weight; common ion-exchange and chromatography grades employ roughly 4–8% DVB.

Properties: The material is rigid and infusible, with a Tg higher than linear polystyrene. It resists many organic solvents and exhibits mechanical stability. Porosity can be tuned to macro- or micro-porous structures, affecting surface area and swelling.

Applications: PSDVB resins are widely used as ion-exchange media, solid-phase extraction supports, and chromatography stationary phases. They also serve as solid supports for catalysts and for solid-phase synthesis, where stability and tunable porosity are advantageous.

Nomenclature: The term polystyreendivinylbenzene describes polymers derived from styrene with divinylbenzene crosslinking; these materials are more commonly referred to as crosslinked polystyrene-divinylbenzene resins or PSDVB resins.