The difference between PVC and PS . plastic

To understand the difference between pvc and ps We must know their physical properties. Kosmos breaks down these two thermoplastic polymers below!

About PVC plastic

PVC plastic is the most commonly used thermoplastic polymer in the world. This type of plastic has high flexibility, initially it is hard and brittle but easily softens when plasticizers are added. PVC offers many useful features to the manufacturing industry in both rigid and flexible forms. PVC plastic (Polyvinyl chloride) is formed from the polymerization of VC (vinylchloride).

Application of pvc

• Creating coatings: packaging, raincoats, etc.
• Insulation materials: wires, cables,..
• Pipeline: water pipe, waste treatment pipe, ..
• Decorative materials: plastic cladding, plastic molding, etc.
• Insulation materials: wall panels, insulating plastic curtains, ..

Some general information about PS plastic

PS plastic (Polystyrene) is a thermoplastic polymer formed by the polymerization of Stirene. This type of plastic is commonly used to produce consumer products. PS is odorless, colorless and extremely easy to color. We can easily process PS plastic by pressing and injection molding at temperatures of 180 - 200 degrees Celsius. Therefore, PS plastic can easily create beautiful decorative shapes.

Application of ps . plastic

• Food containers
• Cases of test instruments, medical equipment
• Electronic cases: TV cases, phone cases, etc.
• Insulation material: PS foam insulation board.
• Decorative materials: ps plastic panels, Korean molding, ...

Comparison of PVC and PS . plastic

After analyzing pvc and ps plastics, we found that there are differences between the two types of plastic but also some commonalities, specifically:

The common point between pvc and ps . plastic

Both types of plastic are polymers thermoplastic. This type of material is also known as thermoplastic, a solid plastic that liquefies under high temperature and returns to its original state when cooled. PS plastic is a thermoplastic family Styrene and PVC is a thermoplastic of the Vinyl family.

PVC and PS are both applied in the industry of decorative materials production, namely: wall/ceiling panels, molding, etc., because of their heat resistance, water resistance, heat insulation, electrical insulation, etc. Good chemical resistance. In particular, thermoplastic polymers are easy to process and create beautiful designs.

Difference between pvc and ps

When forming decorative materials, it is very difficult to distinguish these two types of plastic with the naked eye. However, pvc and ps plastic have many differences in physical properties including:

• Reliability

Calculated on the three aspects of tensile - compression - bending, thermoplastic pvc polymer has much higher strength. Moreover, pvc is easy to plasticize with additives. Meanwhile, ps plastic is hard and brittle, not malleable.

• Suitable temperature for use

PS plastic has a heat resistance of 70-75°C, beginning to liquefy at 100°C, making it easy to mold. However, in food applications, the temperature should absolutely not exceed 70°C to avoid releasing monostyrene, which is harmful to the liver; temperatures of 70-75°C should only be applied for non-food applications.

The use temperature of PVC resin cannot be determined. It is known that UPVC plastic has poor durability when the heat is over 60 degrees for too long. Meanwhile, CPVC plastic has a heat resistance of up to 93.3 degrees Celsius. Therefore, we can only determine that pvc and ps have a difference in heat resistance but cannot give a standard level.

• Specific weight

PVC plastic has a higher density than PS plastic, approximately 0.2 – 0.4 g/cm³. Therefore, PVC decorative materials feel much more solid than PS plastic. However, PS plastic is lighter, making it slightly easier to install.

Summary

PVC and ps is a thermoplastic polymer. Both are easy to process, so they are widely used in the decorative material industry. The difference between these two resins must take into account the density, strength, and appropriate temperature of use.