Styrene - White
0.020 inches 0.040 inches 0.060 inches 0.080 inches 0.120 inches
What is it
High Impact Polystyrene Sheet (HIPS) is a white thermoplastic with a glossy finish on one side and a matt finish on the other.
Orders using this material generally ship in 1-2 weeks. Find out more.
Design notes
Styrene's low melting point means it needs to be laser cut with special attention. Simple shapes work best as intricate detail tends to melt and be lost. The sheets have tendency to warp as the material heats up during cutting, so be sure to allow lots of space in between the pieces. Engraving Styrene will not produce a crisp detail like in Acrylic, but it can still work if areas are simple.
To determine the optimum engraving depth for your design, we suggest prototyping or purchasing a sample of this material from out sample store.
By default, styrene is cut glossy side up with protective tape on both sides. When there is light or medium engraving, the protective tape is applied only on the underside of the material.
Typical uses
Graphic Arts: Indoor directional signs - Shelf talkers - Book marks - Pot plant ID tags. Packaging: Cutlery trays - Take away food containers - Margarine tubs - Cups and lids. Promotional: Point of purchase displays - Moulded face masks - Decorated mobiles.
Environmental info
Polystyrene can be recycled in some areas
Adhesives, joints & fastenings
High impact Styrene can be successfully bonded using Acetone and Weldon 40 & 4052.


Tips from other designers
Just to confirm, Styrene is NOT like styrafoam - it IS a type of plastic sheeting.
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