1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is an opaque, tough thermoplastic copolymer produced by the polymerization of styrene in the presence of finely dispersed polybutadiene rubber particles. These rubber particles increase the impact resistance by up to 10 times compared to GPPS, overcoming the inherent brittleness of polystyrene. HIPS is the primary material in the manufacture of durable household appliance bodies, automotive interior parts, high-impact toys, and thread spools.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Sheet Extrusion Grade | Injection Molding Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| MFI (200/5.0 kg) | 2 – 4 | 5 – 10 | g/10min |
| Izod Impact Strength | ≥ 12 | ≥ 10 | kJ/m² |
| Tensile Strength at Yield | ≥ 23 | ≥ 25 | MPa |
| Vicat Softening Point | 98 – 102 | 96 – 100 | °C |
| Gloss (60°) | ≥ 85 | ≥ 80 | % |
3. Features & Benefits
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Exceptional Impact Resistance: Absorbs impact energy without breaking, even at low temperatures.
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Matte & Glossy Surface Finish: Excellent paintability and printability for decorative parts.
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Easy Thermoforming: The sheet extrusion grade has high melt strength for secondary shaping processes.
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Excellent Processability: A fast molding cycle and low energy consumption.
4. Industrial Applications
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Household Appliances: Refrigerator inner liners, TV backs, vacuum cleaner bodies, and evaporative cooler housings.
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Automotive Industry: Interior dashboard parts, consoles, and door panels.
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Toys: Durable, shatter-resistant toys and building blocks.
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Industrial Packaging: Thread spools and dairy and ice cream containers.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): The granules are safe. Styrene vapors are released at processing temperatures. The Arnico MSDS file must be obtained.
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Storage Conditions: Store in 25kg bags in a dry, cool warehouse, away from solvents and oils.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Adequate ventilation in the production environment and gloves for hot parts.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico HIPS shipments are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing the MFI, Izod impact strength, and gloss.
