Polüstüreene

Polüstüreene is the Turkish name for polystyrene, a synthetic aromatic hydrocarbon polymer produced by polymerizing styrene monomer. It was first prepared in 1839 by Eduard Simon, with commercial development in the 1930s by BASF, Dow Chemical, and others. Polystyrene exists in several forms: GPPS (general-purpose polystyrene), HIPS (high-impact polystyrene), and foams such as EPS (expanded) and XPS (extruded).

GPPS is a clear, rigid, brittle thermoplastic with a glass transition around 95°C, low moisture absorption, and good electrical insulation. HIPS improves impact resistance by adding a rubbery phase. EPS and XPS are foams offering excellent thermal insulation and cushioning but reduced strength.

Polystyrene is inexpensive and easy to mold, but has limited heat resistance and chemical resistance to many solvents. Applications include GPPS in packaging, toys, CD cases, and electronics housings; HIPS in appliance housings and automotive interiors; EPS for packaging foam, protective packing, and disposable food-service ware; XPS for rigid building insulation and refrigeration.

Environment and safety: Polystyrene is not readily biodegradable; recycling is possible but unevenly available and can be costly due to contamination. Incineration can release toxic fumes. In manufacturing, styrene monomer exposure is a concern; finished polystyrene is generally considered safe for food contact at typical conditions, though migrations are regulated in some jurisdictions.