Polyvinyl chloride

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer made by polymerizing vinyl chloride. Its properties range from rigid to flexible depending on additives and formulation.

Vinyl chloride: Vinyl chloride is a colorless, flammable gas used as the monomer for polyvinyl chloride. Its carbon–carbon double bond opens during polymerization to build PVC chains.
PVC pipe: PVC pipe is rigid piping made from polyvinyl chloride compounds for water, drainage, and other services. Its corrosion resistance and low cost make it common in plumbing and drainage.
Suspension polymerization: Suspension polymerization disperses monomer droplets in a liquid medium, where initiators form polymer particles. It is the most widely used industrial route for producing PVC resin.
Vinyl chloride carcinogenicity: Vinyl chloride is a human carcinogen associated with liver angiosarcoma and other health effects after exposure. The monomer’s hazards drove strict controls in PVC production and workplace exposure.
Polyethylene: Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer made from ethylene and used widely in films, containers, and pipes. It competes with PVC in piping and packaging but contains no chlorine.
Addition polymerization: Addition polymerization joins unsaturated monomers into polymer chains without eliminating small molecules. It links vinyl chloride molecules into PVC without producing a small-molecule by-product.
Cable insulation: Cable insulation is a nonconductive layer that surrounds an electrical conductor to limit current leakage and contact. Flexible PVC compounds insulate many wires and cables.
Emulsion polymerization: Emulsion polymerization forms polymer particles in water using surfactants and water-soluble initiators. It produces fine PVC dispersions and paste resins, unlike the dominant suspension route.
Phthalates: Phthalates are a family of chemicals used in products including some plasticizers and consumer goods. Some phthalates have been used to soften PVC, prompting scrutiny of exposure and health effects.
Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer made from propylene, valued for chemical resistance and fatigue strength. It replaces PVC in some applications where lower density or chlorine-free composition is desired.

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