XAREC™ SPS
Last update on Jul 4, 2025
XAREC™ SPS (Syndiotactic polystyrene) is a high-performance thermoplastic boasting excellent heat resistance and mechanical strength. Widely used in industries like automotive and packaging, SPS is valued for its unique properties and widespread usage potential in various applications.
What is XAREC™ SPS?
Syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) is a type of thermoplastic polymer that belongs to the family of polystyrene plastics. Polystyrene is a widely used polymer, and it can exist in different forms based on the arrangement of its polymer chains.
XAREC is a unique type of syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) resin developed by Idemitsu Kosan. It Is created using a metallocene catalyst and styrene monomer, which allows for a flexible crystalline structure.
XAREC stands out for its excellent features, and is considered an environmentally friendly product which can used in wide variety of applications.

Applications by Industry
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Want to find out if XAREC will work for your particular project?
Don't hesitate to get in touch with the Idemitsu experts to discuss your needs and requirements.
What is Syndiotactic Polystyrene?
Syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) is a type of thermoplastic polymer that belongs to the family of polystyrene plastics. Polystyrene is a widely used polymer, and it can exist in different forms based on the arrangement of its polymer chains. The term "syndiotactic" refers to the specific stereochemistry of the polymer chain.
In syndiotactic polystyrene, the polymer chains have a regular, alternating arrangement of side groups (methyl groups) along the polymer backbone. This alternating arrangement gives the polymer distinct properties compared to atactic or isotactic polystyrene, where the side groups are randomly or consistently positioned, respectively.

Syndiotactic polystyrene is known for its high melting point, good chemical resistance, and mechanical strength. It is often used in applications where these properties are beneficial, such as in the production of high-performance plastics, engineering plastics, and as a material for certain medical devices.
The specific properties of syndiotactic polystyrene make it suitable for various industrial applications, including in the automotive, electrical, and packaging industries. Its unique structure contributes to its thermal and chemical stability, making it valuable in certain manufacturing processes and end-use applications.
XAREC™ SPS
XAREC is a unique type of syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) resin developed by Idemitsu Kosan. It Is created using a metallocene catalyst and styrene monomer, which allows for a flexible crystalline structure.
XAREC stands out for its hydrolysis resistance, chemical resistance, low specific gravity, heat resistance, electrical stability, dimensional stability, and easy processability. It is considered environmentally friendly and is used in various applications, including electronic components for hybrid electric vehicles and home appliances, due to its superior properties.

XAREC stands out for its hydrolysis resistance, chemical resistance, low specific gravity, heat resistance, electrical stability, dimensional stability, and easy processability. It is considered environmentally friendly and is used in various applications, including electronic components for hybrid electric vehicles and home appliances, due to its superior properties.

The Sustainability benefits of SPS
Let's begin by understanding what super-engineered resins are. These materials are advanced polymer materials designed to exhibit superior mechanical, thermal, chemical, and physical properties compared to conventional plastics. These resins are often used in high-performance applications where traditional materials would fail to meet the necessary specifications.
While it is not as widely known or used as some of the other super-engineered resins like PEEK or PPS, SPS is part of this family, and shares some of the key properties that makes these materials so attractive and well suited to high performance applications.
There are certain sustainability benefits to SPS that make it a valuable material in applications where long-lasting, high-performance, and environmentally friendly solutions are needed. While there are some challenges to its widespread adoption, the overall contribution of SPS to sustainability is noteworthy.

How can you sustainably apply SPS?
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Applications Gallery
Interested in learning more about how XAREC™ SPS can be used and focused to a specific use case? Here we have segregated information based on the various applications and markets where we have data about how the key properties of the material enhance the final result.
Discover SPS by Idemitsu for microwave and food-grade applications
Know how XAREC™ SPS is a perfect choice for homeware applications
XAREC™ SPS: The material of choice for E&E.Kitchen ware applications
Introducing XAREC™ SPS: A Game Changer in the World of Plastics
Is your specific use case not listed here? We invite you to get in touch with the Idemitsu team in order to discuss your specific project and find what grades of XAREC are perfect for your particular use case.









