Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000] is a low-polydispersity polystyrene analytical standard used in polymer characterization, molecular weight reference work, and method development. This synthetic aromatic polymer is supplied for laboratory reagent use and manufacture of substances.
Synonyms / related names: PS; polystyrene; styrene polymer.
With a nominal molecular weight of approximately 20,000 and a narrow molecular weight distribution, this product is useful for analytical workflows where consistent polymer reference material performance is required. It is soluble in common organic solvents including toluene, MEK, dioxane, and xylene.
Researchers and analytical laboratories commonly use low-PDI polystyrene materials for polymer analysis, GPC/SEC method development, comparative molecular weight studies, and specialty polymer research.
Key Properties
- Polystyrene analytical standard
- CAS Number: 9003-53-6
- Product Number: 01844
- Synonym: PS
- Molecular Weight: ~20,000
- Mw by GPC specification: 15,000-28,000 Da
- Mw/Mn Polydispersity specification: 0.00-1.10
- Low PDI: ~1.06
- Formula: (C8H8)x
- Refractive Index: 1.59
- Melting Point: ~240°C
- Soluble in toluene, MEK, dioxane, and xylene
Applications
Polymer Characterization
Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000] is used in analytical polymer workflows where a defined molecular weight polystyrene material is needed for comparison, reference, or characterization studies.
GPC/SEC Method Development
This low-polydispersity polystyrene may be used in gel permeation chromatography or size exclusion chromatography workflows where narrow-distribution polymer standards support method setup and evaluation.
Molecular Weight Reference Work
The product is useful for research involving polymer molecular weight behavior, comparative polymer analysis, and analytical reference material selection.
Specialty Polymer Research
Polystyrene is widely used in polymer science research involving solvent compatibility, film formation, refractive properties, and styrene-based material systems.
Solubility & Compatibility Considerations
- Soluble in toluene, MEK, dioxane, and xylene
- Solvent compatibility should be evaluated under the intended analytical or formulation conditions
- Performance depends on concentration, solvent selection, temperature, and analytical method parameters
- Use clean glassware and compatible materials to reduce contamination during analytical preparation
Final suitability should be confirmed under the user’s specific method, solvent system, instrument configuration, and sample preparation conditions.
Preparation Tips
- Prepare solutions using a compatible organic solvent listed for the product
- Allow adequate time for dissolution before analysis
- Mix gently and avoid contamination from incompatible materials
- Filter solutions only when compatible with the selected method and filter material
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Exercise normal care during handling
- Use good ventilation and standard laboratory safety practices
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses when appropriate
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet before handling
Why Choose Polysciences?
Trusted by 6,000+ Researchers Worldwide
Cited in Thousands of Peer-Reviewed Studies
U.S. Manufacturing & Global Distribution
Reliable Delivery to 40+ Countries
FAQ
Click a question to expand.
1. What is Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000] used for?
Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000] is used as a low-polydispersity analytical standard for polymer characterization, molecular weight reference work, and GPC/SEC method development.
2. What is the molecular weight specification?
The product is listed as MW ~20,000, with an Mw by GPC specification of 15,000-28,000 Da.
3. What is the polydispersity of this polystyrene standard?
The current product description lists low PDI at approximately 1.06, and the product specification lists Mw/Mn polydispersity from 0.00-1.10.
4. What solvents dissolve Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000]?
The product page lists solubility in toluene, MEK, dioxane, and xylene.
5. How should Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000] be stored?
Store the product at room temperature. Review the Safety Data Sheet for complete storage, handling, and personal protective equipment guidance.
Safety & Documentation
Polystyrene [MW ~ 20,000] should be handled using normal precautions and standard laboratory safety practices. The current SDS lists the product as not classified under GHS US classification. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), product specification, and related technical documents for complete handling, storage, hazard, and technical information.
