Synthetic resins and their raw materials / A survey of the types and uses of synthetic resins, the organization of the industry, and the trade in resins and raw materials, with particular references to factors essential to tariff consideration. Under the general provisions of section 332, title III, part II, Tariff act of 1930.

by United States Tariff Commission

Production in the United States.

For a number of years, the Naugatuck Chemical Division of the United States Rubber Co. produced small quantities of polystyrene resins, which were marketed under the trade name Victron when for general purposes and under the trade name Marvelyn when for use in dentures. Little progress was made because of high costs and failure to produce a water-white product. The sales price was between $1.50 and $2 per pound. Early in 1937 the Naugatuck Chemical Division transferred its patents on polystyrene resins to the Carbide and Carbon Chemicals Corporation.

The Dow Chemical Co., Midland, Mich., late in 1937 announced commercial production of clear, colorless polystyrene in several forms. Styron is the trade name for the resin from this source. In January 1938, the Bakelite Corporation announced Bakelite Polystyrene. The plants manufacturing polystyrene have a capacity in excess of 2,000,000 pounds a year, and the resin is currently offered at 72 cents per pound.

At least one other domestic firm is doing research on the polystyrenes and expects to produce commercially in the near future.