What is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)? | High Performance Polymer USA | Polymer-Plastic Specialists

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a type of polymer that is made from monomers called vinyl chloride. It is a synthetic polymer that is known for its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good chemical resistance.

PVC is a rigid, crystalline polymer that has a high melting temperature and a high modulus of elasticity. It has excellent impact resistance and is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents. It is also resistant to UV radiation and weathering, making it a good choice for outdoor applications.

PVC is a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications, including the construction, automotive, and electronics industries. It is also used in the production of seals, gaskets, and other sealing products, due to its excellent chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction.

PVC Properties

There are several types of PVC, including unplasticized PVC (uPVC), plasticized PVC (PVC-P), and chlorinated PVC (PVC-C). Each type of PVC has its own unique properties and is used in different applications. For example, uPVC is a strong and rigid material that is used in applications where high strength and rigidity are required, while PVC-P is a more flexible and elastic material that is used in applications where flexibility and elasticity are required.

key properties of PVC include:

High strength and toughness: PVC has a high modulus of elasticity and excellent impact resistance, making it a strong and tough material.

Great chemical resistance: PVC is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents, making it a suitable choice for use in harsh environments.

UV resistant: PVC is resistant to UV radiation, making it suitable for use in outdoor applications.

Weather resistant: PVC is resistant to weathering, making it suitable for use in outdoor applications.

Low coefficient of friction: PVC has a low coefficient of friction, making it suitable for use in applications where low friction is required.

These properties make PVC a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications where its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction, make it a suitable choice.

Common Applications

Some common applications for PVC include:

Construction industry: PVC is used in the construction industry for the production of pipes, window frames, and other building components. Its excellent chemical resistance and weather resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Agriculture industry: PVC is used in the agriculture industry for the production of water pipes, hoses, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent chemical resistance and weather resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Marine industry: PVC is used in the marine industry for the production of inflatable boats, rafts, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent chemical resistance and weather resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Chemical processing industry: PVC is used in the chemical processing industry for the production of pipes, valves, and other components that are exposed to harsh chemicals. Its excellent chemical resistance and good mechanical properties make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Water treatment industry: PVC is used in the water treatment industry for the production of pipes, valves, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent chemical resistance and good mechanical properties make it a suitable choice for these applications.

PVC is a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications where its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction, make it a suitable choice.

Summarised Properties of PVC:

Exceptional chemical resistance - PVC can only be dissolved in high concentrations of Nitric and Sulphuric acids. Take a look at our data sheet for specific substance compatibility.

Exceptional UV resistance - Perfect for external use.
Full H2O Compatibility - PVC is renowned for its compatibility with water. Low absorption and anti corrosion.
- Ultra low weight
- Flame resistance
- Abrasion resistance
- Hydrolysis resistance
- Non-Magnetic
- Low thermal conductivity
- Non-Corrosive