High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a tough, durable, and opaque thermoplastic polymer produced by blending polystyrene with polybutadiene rubber. This modification enhances the material’s impact strength, flexibility, and resistance to cracking compared to General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).
HIPS offers a balanced combination of mechanical strength, processability, and cost efficiency, making it one of the most popular and widely used thermoplastics in the packaging, appliance, and consumer goods industries.
Available Grades:
HIPS 6045, HIPS 7055, HIPS 7240, HIPS 4125
And all the Productions are according to Customers’ orders and requests.
Key Characteristics
• High impact resistance and toughness
• Good dimensional stability and rigidity
• Matte surface finish suitable for printing and painting
• Easy to thermoform, extrude, and injection mold
• Compatible with vacuum forming and screen printing
• Good heat resistance and low moisture absorption
• Cost-effective alternative to ABS for moderate-performance applications
• Available in food-contact (FDA Approved)
Processing Methods
HIPS can be processed using standard thermoplastic techniques such as:
• Injection Molding – for precision parts and housings
• Extrusion – for sheets, profiles, and films
• Thermoforming – for trays, containers, and packaging products
• Vacuum Forming – for appliance and display parts
Applications of HIPS
1. Packaging Industry
• Food packaging trays and containers
• Dairy product cups and lids
• Disposable dishes and cutlery
• Blister and clamshell packaging
2. Electrical and Electronic Equipment
• Refrigerator liners and internal parts
• Television and computer housings
• Electrical enclosures and panels
• Components for small household appliances
3. Consumer Goods
• Toys and recreational products
• Cosmetic packaging and display units
• Stationery and office products
• Housings for handheld devices and accessories
4. Construction and Industrial Uses
• Profiles, panels, and protective covers
• Signage, point-of-sale displays, and advertisement boards
• Thermoformed parts and fixtures
5. Automotive Applications
• Interior trim components
• Instrument panels and decorative covers
• Light housings and small molded parts
Advantages
• Superior impact resistance compared to GPPS
• Excellent dimensional stability and mechanical strength
• Easy processing using multiple forming techniques
• Printable and paintable surface finish
• Cost-effective for large-scale manufacturing
• Recyclable
Limitations
• Lower transparency (opaque material)
• Limited resistance to UV radiation and weathering
• Not suitable for prolonged high-temperature exposure
• Moderate chemical resistance — can be affected by strong solvents
High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) combines the ease of processing and affordability of GPPS with enhanced toughness and durability. Its versatility and balance of mechanical, thermal, and aesthetic properties make it an ideal choice for packaging, appliance, consumer, and industrial applications.
HIPS continues to be one of the most widely utilized polymers across global markets where reliability, impact strength, and cost efficiency are key requirements.