Innovative SPS Resin by Idemitsu: A Game Changer in the World of Plastics

TAGS:  Sustainability and Bioplastics    Appliances 

This is a sponsored article by Idemitsu Kosan.

1. Introduction to Syndiotactic Polystyrene (SPS)
2. The chemistry behind SPS
3. Key properties of SPS
4. Main applications of SPS
5. The sustainability aspect of SPS
6. SPS – What do we conclude?
7. XAREC™ SPS – View Complete Product Range

An Introduction to the Innovative SPS

Disruptive ideas in the chemical world are discovered when there is a need. XAREC™ SPS is the world’s first syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) resin, created with a combination of metallocene catalyst with a styrene monomer. The purpose of the catalyst is to give flexibility to the structure of the crystallized polystyrene SPS, by making a variety of benzene ring arrangements.


Reaction showing formation of Syndiotactic Polystyrene (SPS)

Let's explore the chemistry, properties and applications of syndiotactic polystyrene. Also, check out how XAREC™ product line provide a sustainable choice to replace synthetic plastics.

The Chemistry Behind SPS

Syndiotactic polystyrene is a crystalline polymer structure synthesized from styrene monomer with a metallocene catalyst. Due to its crystalline nature, the performance of SPS is different from those of amorphous styrenic materials.

Standard Atactic Polystyrene – Amorphous materials with random stereochemistry that have a non-specific placement of cyclic aromatic portion of molecule. They use anionic or cationic catalyst.

The molecular structure of SPS is also different from conventional styrenic polymers. It is formed with a specific placement of the benzene ring (called Syndiotactic Structure with benzene rings arranged alternately). This chemistry is totally in contrast to syndiotactic and isotactic polystyrene which is made with stereo-specific catalysts, resulting in a highly ordered molecular structure.

Isotactic Polystyrene – Regular arrangement of benzene rings polymerized with Ziegler-Natta catalyst. They show slow crystallization and high heat stability.

Syndiotactic Polystyrene – Regular arrangement of benzene rings polymerized with Metallocene catalyst. They show fast crystallization and highest heat stability.

The high degree of molecular order gives rise to the ability of syndiotactic and isotactic polystyrene for crystallizing from the melt by forming a crystalline microstructure.


The kinetics of crystallization for syndiotactic materials are much faster than isotactic resins. This is the reason for the syndiotactic configuration to provide rapid crystallization during fabrication and processing. SPS crystalline polymer has a narrow distribution of molecular weight that forms a crystalline structure appearing as spherulites with a tightly packed structure.

The rate at which crystallinity develops depends on the following points:

• Use of comonomers
• Addition of nucleating agents
• Temperature of the mold surface
• Injection-molded (level of crystallinity of ~50%)

A Unique Property Combination

The crystallization of XAREC™ SPS, high melting point of 270°C and a whole set of unique properties make it incredibly well-suited for various molding and forming operations (injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming).

In terms of industrial applications, SPS offers superior chemical and heat resistance, outstanding CTI, and low dielectric constants, which has expanded its scope in automotive, homewares, and high-speed communications. SPS can be used to create lead-free solder-compatible connectors for various applications like:

• automotive electrical system components,
• induction heating cookers,
• steam ovens,
• washer-dryers, and
• other appliances requiring the highest heating components.

The Features of XAREC™ SPS
Resistance to Hydrolysis	SPS offers superior hydrolysis resistance in comparison to polyphenylene sulfide, polyester and polyamide-based resins.
Chemical Resistance	SPS is resistant to corrosion by various acids and alkalis for withstanding anti-freezing and automobile oils.
Low Specific Gravity	There is a reduction in weight and cost of parts with the lowest specific gravities of all engineering plastics.
Heat Resistance	It is used for wave and reflow soldering and has the properties of moisture resistance and long-term resistance of 130°C.
Electrical Properties	It includes the electrical properties, including dissipation factor and dielectric constant like fluoro resins. SPS is well-suited for high-frequency components for being electrically stable over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures.
Dimensional Stability	SPS offers better dimensional performance in comparison to the other glass-fiber-reinforced crystalline resins due to the flow and transversal direction of the molten resin changes during mold shrinkage.
Processability	SPS can be easily molded with a standard specification injection molding machine. It is easy to recycle and the degradation due to heating is minimal.
Check out the main characteristics of XAREC™ Syndiotactic Polystyrene (SPS) vs. other resins

Main Applications of XAREC™ SPS

From Automotives to Homeware Section

SPS is unique and versatile with properties that are well-suited for automotive, electronic and electrical, and even homeware sections. Any product that has properties well suited for the automotive sector is bound to perform well across sectors. XAREC™ SPS performs well even when subjected to temperature changes, or exposed to water chemicals, soap, steam, and electrical contact, which makes it a great product to use in homewares and food applications.

Practical Applications

• Hybrid electric vehicles
• Automobile equipment
• Injection molding: Thermoplastics
• Kitchenware and homeware
• Electronics and telecom

XAREC™ SPS in Your Homes

SPS resins have entered your kitchens with the motive to save your health!

When XAREC™ SPS is used to form microwaveable containers, it behaves differently in comparison to normal plastic. There are no harmful inclusions, chemical reactions, or other issues with the temperature changes. It is a very important issue that is resolved by SPS resins, in comparison to the normal plastic containers that could probably leave ill effects on the health with high-temperature usage. Hence, the usage of SPS is coming nearer to you.

Great Potential for Sustainability

Plastics have always been an environmental concern but what if there are eco-friendly engineering plastics introduced that promote sustainability and leave no carbon footprints? XAREC™ SPS can provide a sustainable choice as we work to replace synthetic plastics with long-lasting resins.

Idemitsu Kosan is researching and investing in chemical recycling and the creation of Bio-SPS. Currently, Idemitsu can process Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polystyrene, and SPS and can produce recycled PP, PE, PS, and SPS, as a result. The creation of Bio-SPS is also in process, with plans to produce:

• The first Bio-naphtha,
• Next Bio-Styrene monomer, and 
• Finally Bio-SPS.

This development by Idemitsu is a revolution for the industry in leading towards better growth and leading with non-toxic and heat-resistant resins with excellent electrical properties, low specific gravity, and better electrical features. XAREC™ SPS is an excellent eco-friendly choice that is compatible with a lead-free solder process.

Conclusion

From its invention in 1985 to its first industrial use in 1997, XAREC™ SPS resin has shown outstanding performance in many segments. It includes:

• excellent heat resistance,
• hot water resistance,
• radio-wave permeability, and
• insulation properties with a safety tag.

SPS is increasingly growing in demand, and it is anticipated that it will overcome the challenges being faced in the conventional polyester division.

XAREC™ Syndiotactic Polystyrene Product Range

View specific XAREC™ SPS products for your applications, analyze technical data of each product, get technical assistance or request samples.