Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the third largest production demand material after polyethylene and polypropylene. It has the chemical formula C2H3Cl and is a vinyl polymer consisting of repeating vinyl groups (ethenyls) with one hydrogen atom per repeating unit replaced by a chlorine atom. As a durable and corrosion-resistant material, PVC is widely used in construction, building, transportation, packaging, electrical and healthcare applications. Alfa Chemistry is a leading global supplier of PVC and is committed to developing high quality PVC in different specifications for its customers.
Figure 1. Structural chemical formula and model of PVC molecule.
How to Make PVC
The manufacture of PVC consists of the following five main steps:
- Ethylene and Chlorine gas Production: Ethylene gas and chlorine gas are the two basic materials used in the production of vinyl. Ethylene gas is purified from petroleum or natural gas, while chlorine gas is synthesized from sea salt by high-energy electrolysis.
- Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) Production: Ethylene dichloride (EDC, also known as 1,2-dichloroethane) can be produced from chlorine and ethylene by either chlorination or oxychlorination. EDC is then converted into VCM by a reaction known as pyrolysis.
- Polymerization of VCM into Polymer: VCM molecules are linked together to produce PVC, which is usually a white powder.
- Formulation or Compounding: Pure PVC is mixed with additives, such as plasticizers, stabilizers, colorants, etc., to produce usable plastics with the desired properties.
- Molding: The formulated plastics are molded into final products such as wall panels, pipes and cables.
Performance Characteristics
Some of the most important performance characteristics of PVC are shown below.
- Low Cost: The density of PVC is quite low, so it has a relatively low material cost on a volume basis.
- Durability: PVC exhibits excellent durability. It can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as exposure to sunlight, chemicals and moisture, without significant degradation.
- Chemical Resistance: PVC is highly resistant to chemicals, such as acids and alkalis. It provides a reliable barrier against corrosion and ensures the safe handling and transportation of substances.
- Electrical Insulation: PVC is an excellent electrical insulator, with high dielectric strength and low electrical conductivity. It is an indispensable material in the electrical and electronics industry.
Applications
The versatility of PVC has made it widely used in many industries. Its main applications are as follows.
- Construction: In the construction industry, PVC is widely used for pipes, fittings, profiles and cables. It is ideal for construction materials because it is strong and resistant to moisture and abrasion.
- Packaging: Flexible PVC is commonly employed in food packaging, pharmaceutical blister packaging and shrinkwrap. As a packaging material, PVC can maintain the integrity of the products inside, including pharmaceuticals.
- Automotive: PVC is used in a variety of automotive components, including interiors, dashboards and door panels. Its heat, chemical and UV radiation resistance, combined with its ability to be molded into complex shapes, makes it suitable for automotive interior and exterior parts.
- Consumer Goods: PVC is found in an array of consumer products such as footwear, inflatable toys, raincoats, and vinyl records. Its water resistance, durability, and affordability make it a popular choice for everyday items.
Our Products
Alfa Chemistry provides customers with PVC in different material forms. The specific products are as follows:
Please kindly note that our products and services are for research use only.
