PVC

When the world chases highly durable, sturdy and yet economically affordable materials here is one of the strong synthetic plastics polymers known as Polyvinyl Chloride abbreviated as (PVC). PVC is the third most commonly used material in the world. It is extensively used in the construction field for its wide range of applications.

In this article, let us learn more about PVC, its properties and benefits.

Polyvinyl Chloride Origin

PVC was synthesized in the year 1872 by German chemist Eugen Baumann. Later in the 20th century PVC was commercially used by the Russian chemists Ivan Ostromislensky and Fritz Klatte. They found it difficult to process this rigid polymer, and sometimes the entire process would go in vain. In 1926 the method of processing PVC was proposed by Waldo Semon and the B.F. Goodrich Company. In this process, a flexible PVC was obtained by the addition of various additives. Later PVC was commercialized and has been used widely in various sectors.

Resin is the main component in the production of PVC. It is white, brittle solid material available in powder form or granules. PVC is now replacing traditional constructional materials like ceramics, metal, concrete, wood, rubber and many more. PVC is produced by the process of polymerization of the vinyl chloride monomer.

PVC is amorphous in nature, and hence it is easily combined with other chemicals/substances. Depending on additives used in manufacturing with PVC, many qualities can be imbued in products including anti-mist, different colours, elasticity, fire retarding, flexibility, impact resistance and microbe prevention.

Properties of PVC

• By nature, PVC is a lightweight, sturdy and abrasion-resistant material.
• This versatile thermoplastic polymer is resistant to the action of all inorganic chemicals.
• PVC is an excellent material for insulation due to its high dielectric strength and vapour barrier capacity.
• It can withstand extreme climatic conditions, shock and is free from corrosion. Hence, it is the preferred method for several outdoor applications.
• Since the durability is more, long-life is assured.
• PVC products are self-extinguishing due to high chlorine content.
• PVC can be made more flexible and softer by adding plasticizers such as phthalate and can be bent as per requirement.
• PVC is an intrinsic flame retardant.
• It offers good tensile strength and is rigid by nature.
• It is economical and is an affordable solution.
• It demands less maintenance and offers resistance to grease and oil.

Applications

• Plasticized PVC is used in flooring or (PVC-U) unplasticized PVC is used in making window frames.
• It is used in making sewage pipes and other pipe applications where cost or vulnerability to corrosion limit the use of metal.
• Used in construction fields for insulation on electrical wires or in flooring for hospitals, schools, homes, and other areas where a sterile environment is a priority.
• It is used in various industries like building, electronics, electrical, automotive, medical and packaging.
• PVC fabric is used in the manufacture of aprons shower curtains, raincoats, jackets and sports bags.
• It is used in the garden hose and imitation leather upholstery.

Related links

Stay tuned with BYJU’S for more such interesting articles. Also, register to “BYJU’S – The Learning App” for loads of interactive, engaging Physics-related videos and an unlimited academic assist.