High molecular weight polystyrene prepared by emulsion polymerization was characterized by gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, and solution viscosity. Prepared polystyrene was used to study the energy transfer processes using Exalite 416 and Coumarin 515 dyes as the primary and the secondary dopants. Absorption and emission spectra of the dyes in polystyrene (PS) solution of concentration 2.5 g/dL in 1,4-dioxane have been measured. Absorption spectrum of the acceptor dye, Coumarin 515 (wavelength shifter), at 403 nm matches with the emission spectrum of the donor dye, Exalite 416. Continuous wave emission spectra of these wavelength shifters have been studied by changing the concentration of Coumarin 515 dye (accepter) while keeping the Exalite 416 (donor) concentration (10(-4) M) fixed in the PS solution. Energy transfer process has been discussed. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.