SAN - Styrene-Acrylonitrile Copolymer Sample

SAN Plastic (Styrene Acrylonitrile) is a durable, rigid thermoplastic known for its clarity, strength, and resistance to heat and chemicals. It is made by copolymerizing styrene and acrylonitrile, typically in a ratio of around 70:30. The styrene component provides clarity and rigidity, while acrylonitrile adds chemical resistance, toughness, and thermal stability.

SAN is widely used in consumer goods such as kitchenware, cosmetic containers, and household appliances. It’s also common in medical devices and transparent components where both clarity and resistance to impact or chemicals are required. SAN can be injection molded, extruded, or thermoformed, making it highly versatile in manufacturing.

Compared to pure polystyrene, SAN offers better performance in demanding environments but remains more affordable than higher-end plastics like polycarbonate. However, it is less impact-resistant than ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), which is another styrene-based plastic. Overall, SAN strikes a balance between cost, performance, and appearance.