Polyvinyl Chloride PVC -3

3.2  Optional Additives

These optional additives are not strictly necessary for the integrity of the plastic but are used to draw-upon other properties. Optional additives include processing aids, impact modifiers, fillers, nitrile rubbers, pigments and colorants and Flame Retardants.

4 Benefits of PVC

PVC has excellent electrical insulation properties, making it ideal for cabling applications. Its good impact strength and weatherproof attributes make it ideal for construction products.

• PVC has extensive European food contact and medical approvals

• PVC is easy to process, long lasting, tough and light

• PVC consumes less primary energy during production than any of the other commodity plastics

Source: Software GaBi 4 Database - PE Europe

• With high clarity and excellent organoleptic properties (no transfer of taint to food) it is equally suited for use in short term applications such as specialised packaging.

• PVC has a relatively small carbon footrpint,  the below infographic indicates the CO2 impact PVC compared to other products

• PVC windows help to cut energy bills and PVC-based windows account for most BFRC ‘A’ Rated Energy Efficient Windows

• PVC is fully recyclable.  Due to its properties it reprocesses well and can be recycled into second (or third life) applications with ease.

  
  

5 Applications

PVC is a versatile material that offers many possible applications, these include; window frames, drainage pipe, water service pipe, medical devices, blood storage bags, cable and wire insulation, resilient flooring, roofing membranes, stationary, automotive interiors and seat coverings, fashion and footwear, packaging, cling film, credit cards, vinyl records, synthetic leather and other coated fabrics. 

5.1 Construction

PVC has been used extensively in a wide range of construction products for over half a century. PVC's strong, lightweight, durable and versatile characteristics make it ideal for window profiles. PVC's inherent flame retardant and excellent electrical insulation properties make it ideal for cabling applications.

Typical example of PVC construction products include:

• Window and door profiles, conservatories and atria

• Pipes and fittings

• Power, data and telecoms wiring and cables

• Cable and services ducting

• Internal and external cladding

• Roofing and ceiling systems and membranes

• Rainwater, soil and waste systems

• Flooring

• Wallcoverings

Unplasticised PVC is one of the stiffest polymers at normal ambient temperature and shows little deterioration after many years in service.

PVC is versitile and can be used for different colours and effects, often being used as an alternative to traditional wood frames as they offer tremendous energy-saving potential at low cost.

Coupled together with the variety of colours available (from a variety of manufacturers), the inherant recyclability of PVC, minimal maintenance (regular cleaning required) and their ease of repair, should anything go wrong, PVC-U Windows offer great advantages over competing materials.

PVC is also used in pipes and reservoir linings that help the safe and cost-effective provision of drinking water and sanitation.  

Other construction applications: door profiles, pipes and fittings, power, data and telecoms wiring and cables, cable and services ducting, internal and external cladding, conservatories and atria, roofing and ceiling systems and membranes, rainwater, flooring and wallcoverings.