Polyvinyl Chloride PVC rigid amorphous crystalline polyolefin
INTRODUCTION
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a major thermoplastic material finding use in a very wide variety of applications and products.
The essential raw materials for PVC are derived from salt and oil. The electrolysis of salt water produces chlorine, which is combined with ethylene, obtained from oil, to form vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). These are polymerised to form PVC resin, to which appropriate additives are incorporated to make a customised PVC compound
PROPERTIES
PVC's major benefit is its compatibility with many different kinds of additives, making it a highly versatile polymer. PVC can be plasticised to make it flexible for use in flooring and medical products. Rigid PVC, also known as PVC-U (The U stands for "unplasticised") is used extensively in building applications such as window frames.
Its compatibility with additives allows for the possible addition of flame retardants although PVC is intrinsically fire retardant because of the presence of chlorine in the polymer matrix.
PVC has excellent electrical insulation properties, making it ideal for cabling applications. Its good impact strength and weatherproof attributes make it ideal for construction products.
PVC can be clear or coloured, formulation of the compound is key to PVC's "added value".
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Psysical properties: |
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Tensile Strength |
50 - 75 |
MPa |
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E-modulus |
3000 |
MPa |
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Notched Impact Strength |
2.0 - 15 |
kJ/m² |
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Thermal Coefficient of expansion |
80 |
x 10-6 |
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Max Cont Use Temp |
55 - 80 |
0C |
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VicatB Temp |
55 - 70 |
0C |
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Density |
1.38 - 1.45 |
g/cm³ |
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Resistance to chemicals: |
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Dilute Acid |
Very good |
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Dilute Alkalis |
Very good |
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Oils and Greases |
Good (Variable) |
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Aliphatic Hydrocarbons |
Very good |
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Aromatic Hydrocarbons |
Poor |
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Halogenerated Hydrocarbons |
Moderate (Variable) |
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Alcohols |
Good (Variable) |
APPLICATIONS
Window frames, drainage pipe, water service pipe, medical devices, blood storage bags, cable and wire insulation, resilient flooring, roofing membranes, stationary, automotive interiors and seat coverings, fashion and footwear, packaging, cling film, credit cards, synthetic leather and other coated fabrics. Construction
PVC has been used extensively in a wide range of construction products for over half a century. PVC's strong, lightweight, durable and versatile characteristics make it ideal for window profiles. PVC's inherent flame retardant and excellent electrical insulation properties make it ideal for cabling applications. Typical example of PVC construction products include:
Window and door profiles ,Architectual glazing systems ,Pipes and fittings ,Cable and services ducting ,Internal and external cladding ,Rainwater, soil and waste systems ,Flooring
Automotive
PVC brings both high performance qualities and important cost benefits to the automotive industry. Independent research by Mavel Consultants has shown that the typical cost of using alternative materials is in a range 20-100% higher per component. Typical examples of PVC automotive components include:
Instrument panels and associated mouldings ,Interior Door Panels and Pockets ,Sun Visors ,Floor Coverings |
