HIPS

Overview

HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene), also known as PS (Polystyrene), is an amorphous thermoplastic material, used in lower heat applications. It is categorized as a standard material, and offers ease of processing, high impact strength, and stiffness.

High Impact Polystyrene is impact resistant at the cost of not being naturally clear or transparent. It can be easily painted on and glued. It has economical and easy manufacturability but is generally more expensive than GPPS. HIPS has a matte finish and is a preferred material for thermoforming.

Lower melting temperature for excellent thermoforming properties. Very versatile. High impact protection. Good stiffness and highly rigid material. Commonly used for food packaging and trays for medical devices.

Plastic Recycling Chart

Resin Identification Code
Abbreviation	PET or PETE	HDPE	PVC	LDPE	PP	PS	OTHER	PLA
Polymer Name	Polyethylene Terephthalate	High-Density Polyethylene	Polyvinyl Chloride	Low-Density Polyethylene	Polypropylene	Polystyrene	All Other Plastics	Polylactic Acid
Recyclable	Commonly Recycled	Commonly Recycled	Somethims Recycled	Somethims Recycled	Occasionally Recycled	Commonly Recycled (but diffcult to do)	Difficult to Recycle	Compostable
% Recycled Annually	36%	30~35%	<1%	6%	3%	34%	Low	Low
Time to Decompose	5~10 years	100 years	never	500~1000 years	20~30 years	50 years	never	6 months
Toxicity Level	High	Low	High	Low	Low	High	High	-
Max Temperature	70°C (158°F)	120°C (248°F)	70°C (158°F)	80°C (176°F)	135°C (275°F)	90°C (194°F)	135°C (275°F)	150°C (302°F)
Brittleness Temperature	-40°C (-40°F)	-100°C (-148°F)	-30°C (-22°F)	-100°C (-148°F)	0°C (32°F)	-20°C (-4°F)	-135°C (-211°F)	60°C (140°F)