HDPE -High Impact Polyethylene
High Impact Polystyrene is what its name implies. A few cents more than crystal styrene, to pay for the rubber modifier. HIPS is opaque and very widely used. It has a lower modulus, better elongation, and is a lot less brittle than crystal styrene.
Applications: Household Goods, Containers, Furniture, Housings and Packaging.
| Tensile Strength | Flexural Modulus | Impact Strength | Max Temp. | Chemical Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7,500-10,000 psi | 160,000 -370,000 psi | 3-7 ft-lb/in notched izod | 100°-150° F | Poor |
Advantages
- Optical clarity
- High gloss
- FDA grades available
- Low cost
- Good dimensional stability
- Good rigidity
Disadvantages
- Flammable, but flame retardant grades available
- Poor solvent resistance
- Homopolymers are brittle
- Subject to stress and environmental cracking
Brand Names: Certene, Hival, Polystyrol, Styron