The rapid development of chemical technologies has contributed to the emergence of new materials used in such fields as: construction, consumer goods, furniture and automotive industries. The use of synthetic components has reduced the consumption of natural raw materials and the cost of non-woven fabrics.
Today every schoolchild knows what kind of material PVC is. The scope of its application is quite wide. Technical fabric demonstrates high performance properties and resistance to mechanical stress.
Production Features
To understand what PVC is, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the technology of its production. The material is obtained by polymerizing vinyl chloride in the presence of NaCl. The purpose of the resulting compounds depends on the method of synthesis.
Previously, thermoplastic polymer was produced using an outdated method that required strict adherence to temperature conditions. As a result, a low-quality compound was formed at the output due to the large amount of residual components. This method is called bulk polymerization.
In modern industry, modern methods of PVC synthesis are used:
- polymerization in suspension;
- in emulsion;
- in bulk.
Suspension polymerization requires precise control of parameters. The technology is considered the most popular and is used in the production of plastic windows, products with increased requirements for the quality of the final product.
Emulsion polymerization is a synthesis in an aqueous environment using surfactants that act as emulsifiers. During the process, latex is isolated, from which pure polymer is gradually obtained.
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PVC material is a technical fabric made from synthetic fibers. A polyvinyl chloride coating is applied to a mesh of polymer threads (lavsan, polyester, nylon). Inexpensive, practical material is called banner, awning fabric or film.
The options for the ratio of interwoven threads are varied: 6x6; 7x7; 8x8; 9x9; 12x12. To impart the desired properties, the threads are softened or chemical additives and varnishes are used. For example, polyurethane improves abrasion resistance and makes the fabric elastic.
How does polyvinyl chloride affect the human body?
Vinyl chloride itself is characterized as a very strong poison, releasing toxic substances when burned. In humans, this substance has terato-, carcinogenic and mutagenic effects. As a result of numerous studies, scientists have proven that exposure to PVC in humans causes cancer in various organs and tissues (including the brain, lungs and liver), and also disrupts the lymphatic and hematopoietic systems. With constant exposure to high concentrations, vinyl chloride can even cause paralysis of the nervous system, including complete cessation of breathing. However, modern manufacturers have taken all these properties into account and therefore produce PVC using a special technology. Modern products made of polyvinyl chloride (if they are of high quality) do not have such a terrible effect on humans.
Composition and meaning of the abbreviation PVC
The abbreviation PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. There are other names for the material: vinyl, polyvinyl chloride, winnol, vestolite, sumilite, etc. Chemical formula of the polymer: (C₂H₃Cl)n; [−CH2−CHCl−]n
Analysis of the composition of the substance allows us to conclude that at a temperature of 110 – 120°C, active release of hydrogen chloride HCl occurs. In this case, no combustion is observed. When the structure changes, decomposition begins. When PVC is disposed of under the influence of melting temperatures, the material releases carcinogens harmful to human health and the environment.
Polyvinyl chloride demonstrates resistance to water, alcohols, organic hydrocarbons, and chemical compounds (salts, alkalis, acids). PVC is a dielectric. At temperatures below -65°C the polymer becomes brittle.
Polyvinyl chloride fabric is a technical material of synthetic composition. It is formed by a base of coated polymer threads. Thanks to the properties of the polymer, the material can be given the desired properties.
The fabrics are double-faced, dense, smooth, and have rigidity. Some types of PVC material, through the use of additional plasticizers (phthalates), have elasticity. In the photo, the surface of the canvas is smooth with a glossy shine.
The abbreviation PVC (international name) stands for polyvinyl chloride, translated from English as polyvinyl chloride. The substance comes in two main forms: rigid and flexible. In its pure form it is a brittle, white solid.
To obtain a coating with moderate flexibility, small particles of PVC are dissolved in a plasticizer using the suspension polymerization method. Plastisol is a liquid obtained during the production process that does not harden when cooled and turns into a gel when reheated.
Plastisol coating is applied to polyester fabric in different ways:
- spraying;
- injection into a mold;
- by soaking in a bath.
Characteristics
What PVC is and what properties it has, the table will help you understand:
| Characteristics | Indicators |
| Raw material type | Synthetic |
| Purpose | Technical |
| Structure | Fabric made of polymer threads with a special coating |
| Fibers used in warp production | Polyester, lavsan, nylon, polyester |
| Coating | Polyvinyl chloride |
| Density, g/m2 | From 280 |
| Standard width of canvases, cm. | 160 |
| Water resistance | High |
| Hygroscopicity,% | Less than 1 |
Open to see the entire table
| Moisture absorption rate | Minimum |
| Air conductivity | Small |
| Vapor permeability | Low |
| Heat resistance | Temperature range from - 30 to + 70°C |
| Static electricity buildup | Moderate |
| Side | Two-faced |
| Coloring methods | Plain colored plain canvases |
| Manufacturer | China |
| Standardization | GOST 29151 – 91 |
| Price | Acceptable, from 460 rub. for 1 meter |
comparison table
To summarize, what is the difference between MDF and PVC, it should be stated that in terms of composition these materials have nothing in common. Of course, their areas of application may overlap (for example, in the production of furniture, where cladding is made from MDF, and decorative elements are made from PVC). Or when MDF panels are covered with PVC film, and in some other cases (wall panels are made from both PVC and MDF).
| MDF | PVC | |
| What is the material | Wood chips pressed at high temperature and pressure | Polymer produced at chemical industry enterprises |
| Application area | Construction, production of furniture, containers, floor and wall coverings, acoustic system housings, in some other areas | The widest area of application is electrical engineering (as insulation), the production of a huge range of films, in the light industry, automotive industry, advertising, construction (door and window profiles), in the production of refrigeration equipment and in many other industries |
Harmful or not
PVC material is not safe from an environmental point of view. This is due to the chemical composition of the fabric, which contributes to low air exchange and minimal vapor conductivity. The production of polyvinyl chloride is also not safe. During the synthesis process, harmful substances are released.
The material does not support combustion; melting occurs under the influence of high temperatures. When disposed of, it releases toxic organochlorine compounds and carbon monoxide into the environment.
Chemical properties
As we noted earlier, PVC is practically invulnerable to certain types of acids. This is true - polyvinyl chloride does not change its properties when exposed to alkalis, gasoline, kerosene, salt solutions and metals.
Also, up to 60 degrees Celsius, this material is resistant to hydrochloric and formic acid. PVC is resistant to oxidation and the effects of glycerol, fats and glycols. As for alcohols, polyvinyl chloride does not dissolve in ethyl and methyl alcohols, higher alcohols, as well as lubricating and vegetable oils. It is not vulnerable to the effects of acidic wastewater.
What are the pros and cons
Technical polyvinyl chloride fabric has advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages of the material include the following properties:
- maximum water resistance;
- resistance to chemicals;
- high tensile strength and resistance to mechanical damage;
- preservation of properties under sudden temperature changes;
- UV resistance;
- unlike rubber materials, it is lightweight;
- optimal adhesion;
- durability: service life ranges from 4 to 10 years with intensive use;
- the ability to connect sheets using various types: soldering, gluing, high-frequency welding; repairing cuts using ultrasound, hot air, etc.;
- rich color palette;
- frost resistance;
- fire-resistant fabrics do not support combustion (melt);
- affordable price;
- practicality.
The main disadvantage of the material is its chemical composition. The following disadvantages should be noted:
- the material is not biodegradable;
- The temperature range is from - 30 to + 70°C. When borderline indicators decrease or increase, structural connections change;
- ability to accumulate static electricity;
- During production and disposal, PVC material is harmful to the environment due to the release of toxic elements.
Popular types
The difference between the paintings in many respects does not allow for a unified classification. Types of PVC are distinguished according to the following characteristics:
- Single or double sided.
- Non-reinforced fabrics with average strength.
- Reinforced with high strength. The film is produced in a standard way. Then the canvas is reinforced with additional fastening elements.
- Single and multi-layer types.
- Depending on the number of threads and the weaving method used.
Viniplast - PVC-U
PVC - PVC-U meaning: vinyl plastic without the use of plasticizers. It is a hard, opaque, odorless thermoplastic material. The fire-resistant fabric is joined using a welding rod or any perchlorovinyl-based adhesive. It is used in construction, mechanical engineering, and the manufacture of containers for aggressive liquids and gases. It is a good dielectric.
Plastic compound - PVC-P
A wide range of applications is demonstrated by plastic compound - PVC-P. This is a multifunctional moisture-resistant and fire-resistant material containing up to 50% plasticizers in its composition. Available in transparent or colored. Used in the production of electrical tape, hoses, fittings, packaging and other products.
Frost-resistant
Frost-resistant types of awning fabrics are also produced dyed or transparent. Due to special modifiers, they demonstrate the preservation of physical properties in the temperature range from - 50 to + 70 ° C. Used in the manufacture of hoses, awnings, curtains, etc.
Transparent
Transparent types of PVC belong to the group of plasticizers. They have found application in the production of packaging materials, medical products, equipment for greenhouses and special structures.
Reinforced
There are several types of reinforced polyvinyl chlorides according to their intended purpose: boat, construction, awning. Inflatable boats made from this material are somewhat heavier than those made from unreinforced PVC, but demonstrate high strength and reliability. This type of canvas is also used for RIB type cylinders.
Dielectric properties
When listing the properties of PVC , it is also necessary to note the fact that polyvinyl chloride is a good dielectric (does not conduct electric current through itself). However, when heated to a temperature of 85 degrees Celsius or more, this material quickly loses these properties. As for weight, PVC is heavier in density than polyethylene, but lighter than fluoroplastic and phenol-formaldehyde plastic.
The high fire resistance of PVC is achieved through the use of a component such as chlorine in its production. It is this that reduces the risk of flammability of rigid polyvinyl chloride.
Areas of application
Polyvinyl chloride polymer materials have found application in the following industries: construction, medicine, mechanical engineering, toy production, and many others. others.
Banners
Banner PVC is also called vinyl fabric. Used in the production of advertising products. Due to the chemical composition and the use of plasticizers, the canvas is suitable for printing. The density of this type varies from 280 to 550 g/m2. For banners and billboards, fabrics reinforced with polypropylene or polyester mesh and non-reinforced fabrics are used.
Furniture and interior
Non-plasticized PVC is used in the production of garden furniture and interior items for cafes and restaurants. The film is used to decorate the facades of objects made of MDF and laminated chipboard. The coating prevents moisture from entering and deformation due to temperature changes.
Kitchens with a facade covered with PVC film are practical, affordable, and easy to care for.
Toys
Vinyl is widely used in the production of children's toys. It is almost impossible to find dolls on sale that do not contain polymer materials. Plastisol is the main raw material in the production of rubber toys.
PVC is not considered a safe material, so most manufacturers use various technologies to increase the level of safety, using various plasticizers. Low quality toys come mainly from China. When choosing, it is important to have a certificate of conformity and indicate the composition of raw materials on the packaging. A high-quality polymer used in the production of toys should not have a chemical smell.
Construction
PVC has also found wide use in construction. It is used to make pipes, fittings, floor coverings, finishing panels, work gloves, protective clothing, windows, doors, and fittings. The main advantages of the material are considered to be high strength, resistance to corrosion, rigidity, lightness and fire resistance.
Boats
Boat polyvinyl chloride is produced in two versions: reinforced and non-reinforced. The material has optimal flexibility. Non-reinforced PVC is lighter than reinforced PVC, and accordingly, the weight of an inflatable boat made from it is lower.
Swimming pools
Pools are also made from plastic polymer. The products are characterized by a high degree of reliability and durability. Their cost is reasonable, which determines the popularity of the products.
Medicine
Polyvinyl chloride has been used in medicine for more than 50 years. It is used in the production of various items, including those that come into contact with the internal organs and blood of patients. Therefore, chemical compatibility of the components is a prerequisite. PVC used for medical supplies is approved for use by the European Union and is considered safe.
The material is used to make catheters, tubes, packaging, medical gloves, masks, splints, blood pressure monitors and much more. etc.
Auto
In the automotive industry, the polymer is the second most popular after polypropylene. The use of synthetic raw materials not only reduced the cost of vehicles, but also extended their service life. PVC is used to make dashboards, interior coverings, cable insulation, armrests, airbags, and much more. etc.
Awnings
In the production of awnings, polymer occupies a leading position. Unlike tarpaulin samples, such products protect against moisture and temperature fluctuations. An essential aspect is the ease of connecting the blades: soldering, welding.
Tablecloths
Tablecloths made of polyvinyl chloride are also popular not only in catering establishments. Many housewives loved them for their ease of care, visual appeal and affordable cost.
Story
Polyvinyl chloride was first produced from vinyl chloride in 1835 by Henri Victor Regnault in France. This happened during random experiments. The scientist’s notes have been preserved, in which he was unable to characterize and name the resulting substance.
The next wave of research into the polyvinyl chloride compound dates back to 1878. But even then there was no use for it and the experiments were suspended.
In 1913, in Germany, chemist Fritz Klatte, having studied the properties of the substance, patented the production of PVC. The outbreak of the First World War prevented the implementation of his ideas.
Almost in parallel with Klatte in Germany, polyvinyl chloride was studied by Waldo Silon in America. In 1926, he patented the idea of creating bathroom curtains from the new fiber.
Industrial production of objects from the new material began in 1931.
In less than 15 years, polyvinyl chloride fabric has become firmly established in many industries. They also began to make dishes, household items, automobile parts, etc. from it.
