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| Names | |
|---|---|
| Other names SAN | |
| Identifiers | |
| ChemSpider |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.127.519 |
| EC Number |
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| Properties | |
| (C8H8)n-(C3H3N)m | |
| Molar mass | variable |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in theirstandard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). | |
Styrene acrylonitrile resin (SAN) is acopolymerplastic consisting ofstyrene andacrylonitrile. It is widely used in place ofpolystyrene owing to its greater thermal resistance. The chains of between 70 and 80% by weight styrene and 20 to 30% acrylonitrile.[1] Larger acrylonitrile content improves mechanical properties and chemical resistance, but also adds a yellow tint to the normally transparent plastic.[2]
SAN is similar in use topolystyrene. Like polystyrene itself, it is transparent and brittle. The copolymer has aglass transition temperature greater than 100 °C owing to theacrylonitrile units in the chain, thus making the material resistant to boiling water. It is structurally related toABS plastic, wherepolybutadiene is copolymerised with SAN to give a much tougher material. The rubber chains form separate phases which are 10-20 micrometers in diameter. When the product is stressed,crazing from the particles helps to increase the strength of the polymer. The method ofrubber toughening has been used to strengthen other polymers such asPMMA andnylon.
Uses include food containers, water bottles, kitchenware, e.g., blenders and mixers, healthcare materials, cosmetic jars, computer products, packaging material, household equipment e.g., shower trays,battery cases andplastic optical fibers.[1]
