Process

Styrene will polymerize spontaneously on heating in an Oxygen-free atmosphere but Catalysts are added to ensure complete Polymerisation at lower temperatures. There are three types of processes generally used - Suspension, Solution and Mass (Bulk) Polymerisation. The advantages of the Solution route, which can be continuous or batch operation, are low residual Monomer content and high purity Polymers. The Suspension route produces Polymers of different molecular weights and can make specialist Crystal and High Impact grades of Polystyrene. The main advantages of the Mass process are the clarity and and excellent colour of the resins produced.