Styrene polymers; (other than expansible polystyrene), in primary forms

HS code 390319 covers a range of styrene polymers, excluding expansible polystyrene, in their primary forms. These materials are widely used across various industries, from packaging and construction to automotive and electronics. As a versatile and cost-effective plastic, styrene polymers play a crucial role in the global economy, providing essential components and materials for a diverse array of products and applications.

The production of styrene polymers covered under HS code 390319 typically involves polymerization processes. This can include techniques such as bulk polymerization, suspension polymerization, or emulsion polymerization, depending on the specific requirements and properties desired in the final product. The polymerization process transforms the styrene monomers into long polymer chains, which are then extruded or molded into the desired primary forms, such as pellets, sheets, or blocks.

The main inputs required for the production of styrene polymers under HS code 390319 include styrene monomers, which are typically derived from petroleum-based sources. Additionally, various additives and modifiers, such as plasticizers, stabilizers, and colorants, may be incorporated to enhance the material's properties and performance. The production process also requires specialized machinery and equipment, including reactors, extruders, and molding machines.

The primary outputs of HS code 390319 are styrene polymer products in their various primary forms, such as pellets, sheets, or blocks. These materials are then consumed by a wide range of industries, including 392010 Plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics, 392030 Baths, shower-baths, sinks and washbasins, of plastics, 392690 Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914, and 401120 New pneumatic tyres, of rubber, among others, where they are further processed and incorporated into a diverse array of end-products.