ABSTRACT
Styrene will polymerize readily with acrylonitrile and butadiene to form Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) resins. These polymers have a better impact resistance and higher tensile strength than polystyrene which has led to their use in applications where these properties are desirable. Three types of polymerization processes are in commercial use for the production of ABS resins: emulsion; suspension; and bulk. The polymer passes to a devolatorizer where any remaining monomers and diluent are removed by heating to 150°C under vacuum. Degassing and treatment of the ABS resin are carried out as for the bulk polymerization process. The most important outlet for ABS resins is in transportation which accounts for 23% of total world consumption. ABS is harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin as it is a suspected carcinogen. ABS burns slowly giving off carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides as it decomposes.
