HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene)

Also called: High impact polystyrene, impact PS, resin code 6

HIPS (high impact polystyrene) is rubber-modified polystyrene used for appliance parts, disposables and sheet, traded as scrap, regrind and granules.

High impact polystyrene (HIPS) is polystyrene toughened by adding polybutadiene rubber. The rubber makes it opaque and far less brittle than general purpose polystyrene. Its density is about 1.04-1.05 g/cm3, and it carries resin identification code 6 (PS).

Recycled forms traded

• Refrigerator liners and appliance parts, TV and electronics housings.
• Post-industrial sheet trims and thermoforming scrap, cups and disposable items.
• HIPS regrind and recycled granules, usually in white, black or mixed colour.

Why it matters when buying recycled plastic

• HIPS and ABS look and feel similar; mixed material can mould poorly and lose toughness.
• Ask whether the source was food packaging or electronics, since this affects additives and suitable end uses.
• Check impact strength and MFI on a sample.
• Its density is close to water, so float-sink separation alone may not isolate it reliably.

Common uses

Refrigerator liners, appliance parts, disposable cups and cutlery, trays, toys, stationery and sheet for thermoforming.

When writing an order, state whether you need white, black or mixed colour, and whether the material came from appliances, electronics or packaging.