Abstract: A continuous bulk polymerization process for making a high gloss, high impact strength polystyrene based resin having a bimodal particle size distribution containing capsule particles having an average size of 0.2 to 0.6 microns and cellular particles having an average particle size of 1.2 to 8.0 microns. The process comprises three reaction zones in series where styrene and a styrene-butadiene copolymer are fed to the first reaction zone which is maintained at pre-phase inversion conditions and no particles are allowed to form. The capsule particles form in the second reaction zone which is maintained at post-phase inversion conditions. Polybutadiene is introduced into the third reaction zone which is also maintained at post-phase inversion conditions. The cellular morphology particles form in the third reaction zone.

Abstract: A polystyrene based composition is provided having high impact strength and gloss. The gloss is particularly noted when the resin is molded into plastic articles, especially at relatively cooler temperatures, such as 80.degree. F. to 100.degree. F. The composition contains three resins. The first resin comprises polystyrene and rubber particles smaller than 1.0 micron, such as 0.2 to 0.6 microns. The second resin comprises polystyrene and rubber particles larger than 1.0 micron. The third resin preferably is a block copolymer of styrene and butadiene. Unexpectedly, the third resin improves the gloss achieved by the overall composition.