New trends in PVC stabilizers for PVC pipe

The PVC pipes are currently manufactured using a wide range of stabilizer systems. European market was historically based on Lead stabilizers that have been entirely replaced by COS (Organic-based and/or Calcium-Zinc stabilizer) systems thanks to the Voluntary Commitment of the European Stabilizer Producers Association within the Vinyl 2010–Vinyl Plus initiative.

The North American market is historically predominantly using Tin based stabilizers whilst in South America, Lead stabilizers are primarily replaced by COS stabilizers. The Asian market is still mainly using Lead based stabilizers but the use of COS systems is developing in this area.

The stabilizer market is currently moving toward the design, manufacture and use of efficient, effective, safe and more environmentally benign chemical products and processes. The toxicological and eco-toxicological profile of the stabilizer has no impact on the final article and on consumers as it is firmly embedded into the polymer matrix. However, it has an impact in the sustainability of the supply chain upstream of finished pipe and has to be taken into account properly.