allmänpolystyrén

Allmänpolystyrén, often abbreviated as GPPS, is a transparent, rigid, and brittle form of polystyrene plastic. It is one of the most widely produced and used plastics globally due to its low cost and ease of processing. GPPS is amorphous, meaning its polymer chains are randomly arranged, which contributes to its clarity. It has a glass transition temperature of around 100 degrees Celsius, above which it softens and can be molded.

The primary applications of allmänpolystyrén include disposable food packaging, such as yogurt cups and cutlery, as well as CD jewel cases, clear plastic tumblers, and laboratory equipment like petri dishes. Its excellent transparency makes it ideal for products where visibility is important. However, its brittleness and susceptibility to scratching limit its use in applications requiring high impact strength or durability. GPPS is also known for its good electrical insulation properties.

Processing methods for GPPS typically involve injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming. It can be easily colored with pigments. While generally considered safe for food contact applications, its flammability requires caution. Recycling of GPPS is possible, though not as widespread as for some other plastics, and it can be repurposed into various items after reprocessing.