Trinseo launched its new Styron X-Tech 2175 Polystyrene resin, which the company says offers down-gauging for use in freezers and refrigerators. Down-gauging refers to the reduction in thickness necessary for a plastic film to retain a previous level of effectiveness.

Trinseo’s polystyrene resin offers down-gauging in freezers and refrigerators. The environmental stress crack resistance high-impact polystyrene product is the first release from the Styron X-Tech Polystyrene resins technology platform. The product is aimed at applications in the home appliance, packaging, and building and construction markets.

The new product, says Trinseo, will offer enhanced material performance and processing through its combination of high stiffness and high melt strength.

Polystyrene resin is a thermoplastic polymer made from styrene, a petroleum derived liquid hydrocarbon. It’s noted for its low cost, low softening temperatures, wear characteristics, a high refractive index and electrical insulation properties.

Polystyrene resin is used in numerous manufacturing processes, including injection molding, sheet and film extrusion, and expanded foam extrusion. It’s used in products ranging from plastic cutlery to refrigerator door liners as well as items such as toys, insulating panels, disposable razors, appliance casings and furniture components.