Polystyrene sulfonate

Polystyrene sulfonates are polymers derived from polystyrene but containing sulfonate functional groups. They are widely used to remove ions such as potassium, calcium and sodium from solutions in technical or medical applications.

Linear polymers are water-soluble, and white when very pure. Cosslinked materials (called resins) do not dissolve in water and typically appear amber in color. These polymers are classified as polysalts and ionomers.