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Polyvinyl chloride is a thermoplastic polymer manufactured from petroleum that stands third among the most used polymers worldwide, as per studies. PVC is a white, brittle solid in its pure form, generally delivered as powder or pellets. Recycled PVC is broken down into pvc powder or tiny chips, and all the impurities are sucked out. The lifespan of PVC is about 140 years, and it can be recycled roughly seven times. Let’s dive into the details of PVC powder.
Powder Formation
Polyvinyl chloride is a white, brittle solid available in powder or granular form. These forms are produced through a different polymerization reaction between vinyl chloride monomers.
The Rigidity of solid PVC is modified later by adding one or more excipients depending on the application of PVC. The additives include heat stabilizers, flame retardants, biocides, fillers, UV stabilizers, blowing agents, smoke suppressors, and pigments.
Application of PVC Powder
Polyvinyl powder has a plethora of varying applications. It is used in healthcare, electronics, automobile and other sectors, building and construction, wire and cable insulation, and windshield systems. Other rigid and soft PVC applications include PVC pipes, PVC profiles, PVC sheets, and flexible pipes.
Safety Concerns regarding PVC powder
PVC is not considered dangerous, so no hazard classifications are documented for it. Pigments used in PVC pellets are in significantly low quantity and are bound in the polymer matrix, which doesn’t impose any health hazards.
There has been no adversity reported if a person is exposed to PVC in a ventilated area; however, in case the exposure occurs when there is no ventilation, it is advised to move the patient to fresh air immediately. Also, avoiding inhalation of a large amount of PVC dust or direct contact with the eyes or skin is strictly suggested.
Sustainability
PVC is a product of fossil fuels, including natural gas. Sodium chloride is used in the production method, which leads to polymers containing approximately 57% chloride content. Recycled PVC is broken into small chips with all its impurities removed to make pure form. As per studies, Europe’s 731,461 tons of PVC were recycled in 2020.
A policy was developed for the use of PVC, highlighting the properties of PVC that can make it appropriate and safe for the environment. It also emphasizes the rate of recycling or reuse of PVC.
Pricing
A wide range of PVC, both flexible and rigid, is available in the market. PVC powder is used in many products you come across almost daily or some household items that are not used frequently. Still, PVC powder is an essential element of our lives, a significant part of the construction, electronics, healthcare, and other departments.
The reason for its abundant availability is the low cost, apart from the ideal physical and mechanical properties. There are many other substitutes for PVC material, but either they need to be more efficient or, in most cases, these alternatives are too costly and are not bought frequently.
Conclusion
Polyvinyl chloride resin is the only thermoplastic produced in powder form, while other thermoplastics are available as granules mixed with additives. This ensures long-term storage of PVC since the powder form is resistant to oxidation and degradation. During processing, additives and pigments are added to PVC to manufacture multiple products for different applications with varying properties.
