Polystyrene is a polymer made from the monomer styrene, a liquid hydrocarbon that is commercially manufactured from petroleum. Pure solid polystyrene is a colorless, hard plastic with limited flexibility. It is economical and is used for producing plastic model kits, plastic cutlery, CD “jewel” cases, and many other objects where a fairly rigid economical plastic is desired. Disadvantages are the low viscosity and thus are prone to breakage.

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