What is PVC plastic? Advantages and disadvantages, classification, applications

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a thermoplastic resin formed from the polymerization of Vinyl Chloride monomer, with a stable branched or straight chain structure. Invented in 1872 and developed strongly since the 1930s, PVC exists in two main forms: suspension (PVC-S) is a 20-150 micron granular solid and emulsion (PVC-E) is a colloidal liquid.

The PVC manufacturing process consists of three main stages: polymerization of Vinyl Chloride, addition of additives (heat stabilizers, plasticizers, impact-resistant agents), and shaping of the product through methods such as extrusion, injection molding, blowing, and lamination. PVC is divided into five main types: PVC-P, UPVC, PVC-O, CPVC, and PVC-M.

PVC has many outstanding advantages: 30% lower cost than other types of plastic, easy to process and has good water resistance.

In construction, PVC accounts for 60% of the plastic material market share, used for water pipes, plastic doors and panels. In medicine, PVC is the main material for 40% of disposable medical devices. In addition, PVC is also widely used in the production of packaging, automotive components and electronic equipment.

“Medical-grade PVC accounts for 40% of all plastic-based disposable medical devices in hospitals, demonstrating its important role in the health service delivery system.” according to the World Health Organization (WHO) (2024).

What is PVC plastic?

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride, Polyvinyl Chloride) is a thermoplastic resin formed by the polymerization of Vinyl Chloride (VC) monomer. This polymerization process forms a Polymer with a stable, flexible branched or straight chain structure and its properties can be adjusted flexibly through the addition of various additives.

PVC exists in two main forms: suspension (PVC-S) and emulsion (PVC-E). PVC-S is a solid in the form of granules with a size of 20-150 microns, insoluble but suspended in water. PVC-E is a colloidal liquid with high smoothness. The density of PVC ranges from 1.25-1.46 g/cm³, higher than that of water.

After consulting and synthesizing from many reliable sources, Kosmos found that one of the outstanding advantages of PVC is its safety and non-toxicity.

However, the impact resistance of PVC is often not high. To improve this, people often add 5-15% compatible additives such as MBS, ABS, CPE or EVA.

PVC plastic production process

The PVC production process includes 3 main stages:

Stage 1: Vinyl Chloride Polymerization

During this stage, VC is polymerized into Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) through a free radical polymerization reaction. Depending on the polymerization method (suspension, emulsion, bulk), the PVC obtained will be in the form of granules or powder with different sizes and properties.

Step 2: Add additives

Raw PVC after polymerization will be mixed with different additives to optimize 4 features:

1. Heat and UV stabilizers: Helps PVC withstand heat and resist aging
2. Plasticizer: Increases the flexibility and ease of processing of PVC
3. Impact resistant: Improved strength and no breakage
4. Color, flavor: Create color and scent for PVC products.

Phase 3: Product Definition

After being mixed, PVC will be put into the shaping processing lines depending on product requirements, including 4 common methods:

1. Extrusion: Create pipes, profile bars, PVC sheets
2. Injection Molding: Create complex 3D PVC parts
3. Blow Molding: Forming hollow products such as bottles, jars, and vases
4. Calendering: Production of PVC films, decals, and fabrics. Shaping of PVC plastic products.

Physical properties of PVC plastic

The four physical properties of PVC plastic are:

1. PVC-S is a solid in the form of 20-150 microns granules, insoluble but suspended in water.
2. PVC-E is a liquid colloidal system with high smoothness.
3. PVC density is about 1.25-1.46 g/cm³, heavier than water and floating plastics such as PE, PP, EVA.
4. PVC is safe and non-toxic. Toxicity is usually caused by excess additives.
5. PVC has poor impact resistance, which can be improved by adding 5-15% MBS, ABS, CPE, EVA.

Chemical properties of PVC plastic

The four chemical properties of PVC plastic are:

1. Polyvinyl Chloride plastic has the molecular formula C2H3Cl)n.
2. PVC is quite chemically inert, has good corrosion resistance and chemical resistance.
3. PVC has superior fire resistance and electrical insulation properties.
4. The characteristic reaction of PVC is the HCl reduction reaction (Dehydrochlorination).

Advantages of PVC plastic

Through the process of researching and verifying information from official sources, Kosmos learned that PVC plastic is popular because of the following 3 advantages:

1. Cheap, easy to process, color and recycle.
2. Waterproof, heat resistant, good insulation.
3. High mechanical strength, good abrasion and chemical resistance.

Disadvantages of PVC plastic

Besides the benefits, users need to consider the following 3 factors when using PVC plastic because:

1. PVC is difficult to biodegrade and persists in the environment for a long time.
2. The production and burning of PVC can release toxic gases, causing pollution.
3. PVC is flammable and has an unpleasant odor in environments with high temperatures above 120℃.

PVC plastic classification

According to what Kosmos has learned from reliable documents and research, PVC plastic is divided into 5 main types based on properties and applications:

PVC-P (PVC Plasticized)

PVC-P (PVC Plasticized) is a type of PVC resin with 10-50% plasticizers such as DOP, DINP added to increase flexibility and transparency. PVC-P is used to make thin films, plastic fabrics, cables, and toys.

UPVC (PVC Unplasticized)

UPVC (PVC-U, Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is hard PVC plastic, does not contain phthalates and BPA plasticizers, has high hardness and durability. PVC-U plastic is used to make panels, water pipes, plastic doors, and packaging.

PVC-O (PVC Oriented)

PVC-O is created by rearranging the amorphous structure of PVC-U into a layered structure, increasing tensile strength and impact resistance by 2-3 times. PVC-O is used as water pipes.

CPVC (Chlorinated PVC)

PVC-C is produced by chlorinating PVC-U, increasing heat resistance, chemical resistance and fire resistance. PVC-C is used in the chemical industry and water treatment.

PVC-M (PVC Modified)

PVC-M (modified PVC) is PVC plastic created by adding modifying agents, enhancing special properties, making the sheath of electric cables and pipes strong and durable.

Applications of PVC plastic

According to information provided by reputable sources that Kosmos has consulted, with many superior features, PVC plastic has become an indispensable material in many areas of life such as: Construction, medicine, packaging, and many other industries.

Application of PVC plastic in construction

5 common applications of PVC plastic in the construction industry such as: Water pipes, doors, flooring, wall panels.

1. PVC water pipes have high pressure resistance, superior durability and effective leak prevention.
2. PVC plastic doors have good tightness, sound insulation, heat insulation and resistance to harsh weather.
3. PVC plastic flooring is waterproof, anti-slip, easy to clean and highly aesthetic.
4. PVC plastic panels are soundproof, heat-insulated, waterproof and easy to clean.
5. PVC plastic partitions are used to divide space flexibly and have a long-lasting durability of up to 20 years.

Application of PVC plastic in medicine

PVC plastic makes many specific safe medical instruments such as the following 4 types:

1. PVC infusion tubing is safe, biocompatible and ensures sterility.
2. PVC pharmaceutical packaging is transparent, airtight and protects drugs effectively.
3. PVC gloves and snorkel are flexible, hypoallergenic and easily sterilized.
4. PVC film used for surgical sheets, dialysis bags, wound dressings.

Application of PVC plastic for packaging

PVC plastic packaging is extremely popular for the following 3 reasons:

1. Transparent PVC bottles and jars, light and durable, suitable for packaging food and cosmetics.
2. PVC food wrap has high protection, keeping food fresh.
3. PVC packaging has a variety of colors and shapes and is easy to print and decorate.

Applications of PVC plastic in other industries

A variety of different industries use PVC plastic, commonly the following 4 industries:

1. Automotive industry: PVC is used for upholstery, electrical wiring, and interior paneling.
2. Electronics industry: PVC is an insulating material, used to make equipment covers and cable covers.
3. Agriculture: PVC for greenhouse film, irrigation pipes, tarpaulins.
4. Sports and entertainment: PVC makes balls, swimsuits, costumes, artificial turf.

Frequently Asked Questions about PVC Plastic

What are the factors affecting the quality of PVC plastic?

To ensure the quality of PVC products, the following 3 factors need to be controlled:

1. VC raw materials and additives must meet standards and be free of impurities.
2. The production process must comply with technical specifications, temperature and reasonable pressure.
3. PVC products must be inspected, packaged and stored according to regulations.

Methods of recycling PVC plastic

There are two methods of recycling PVC plastic: mechanical recycling and chemical recycling, specifically:

• Mechanical recycling: Crush, wash PVC and reuse to produce new products.
• Chemical recycling: Decompose PVC into its original monomer, then reuse the product.

What chemicals can be harmful in PVC plastic?

There are three main chemicals in PVC that need to be controlled:

1. Vinyl Chloride: Carcinogen, released when burning or PVC breaks down.
2. Phthalates: Endocrine disruptor, reproductive health problems, used as PVC plasticizer.
3. Cadmium: Heavy metals that damage the nervous system and are released when PVC is burned or damaged.

How to use and handle PVC plastic safely?

Follow these 3 guidelines to help protect your health and the environment:

1. Do not burn PVC or use for cooking.
2. No toxic substances (pesticides, paints) in bottles, PVC plastic packaging.
3. Do not use PVC to contain food or drinks.

What are the commonly used PVC materials at Kosmos?

At Kosmos warehouse, there are 3 types of PVC plastic materials commonly used in interior decoration including:

1. PVC panel: It is an interior wall and ceiling cladding material with a wood-like or stone-like surface (Marble PVC), commonly available as flat panels or unique fluted panels.
2. PVC flooring: Also called wood plastic floor 100% moisture and termite resistant.
3. PVC plastic partition: There Galawood 2-sided wood-plastic partition Made from 40% virgin PVC, combined with 60% stone powder and additives.

PVC plastic panel collection

PVC partition collection

PVC wood plastic flooring collection

>>> Modern Galawood gray fabric-patterned PVC room divider.

Kosmos is proud to be a reputable supplier of interior and exterior decoration materials, distributing high-quality products to more than 500 agents nationwide. If you have any concerns, readers can leave a comment below for detailed advice.

Is PVC plastic toxic?

When used and handled properly, PVC is harmless. However, long-term exposure to high levels of PVC can be toxic. In addition, burning PVC creates toxic chemicals such as Dioxin and Furan, which cause cancer and affect the immune and reproductive systems.

PVC plastic with many outstanding advantages has become a popular material in life. However, the proper use and handling of PVC is very important to maximize its benefits, while limiting negative impacts on human health and the environment.