Properties and applications of PVC

Currently PVC is most of the most widespread plastics in the world but its use in manufacturing objects dated back to the first half of the 1990's.

Thanks to the variety of possible formulations, PVC is a highly versatile plastic. Hence it is suitable for application in many sectors thanks to the use of special PVC working machines.

PVC is derived from the polymerization of vinyl chloride. By polimerization we mean that chemical process through which a substance is formed from two or more molecules, known as monomers, of the same compound.

Main characteristics of PVC:

Very good thermal and acoustic insulation;
The multi-groove PVC profiles exhibit very low thermal conductivity which means greater thermal insulation. Hence PVC is particularly suitable for fabrication of French windows and windows and doors.
No maintenance: coating or surface treatment;
PVC is not altered by atmospheric agents.
Flexibility in design;
PVC can safely be used in all contexts.
PVC is self-extinguishing or flame retardant;
therefore it is very safe for all types of application and construction. Moreover PVC does not pollute the environment and can be fully recycled.

Uses of PVC

Regarding mechanical-physical properties, there are essentially two types of PVC:

RIGID PVC, without plasticizers, it exhibits high surface strength and very good rigidity. It is used mainly for extrusion of profiles for windows, piping and other applications in widely differing sectors.
PLASTICIZED PVC added with plasticizers thanks to which a flexible material is obtained used in manufacture of films, gaskets, expanded products, sheets, jacketing for electrical cables, etc.

Above all PVC is used:

in building and construction;
PVC windows and doors, besides windows, doors and frames, also shutters, panels, piping for drinking water distribution and exhaust, flooring, sheeting for waterproofing of roofing and swimming pools, wall cladding, electrical ductwork, plumbing, etc.
in packaging, above all foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals.
in cars: panels for car doors, dashboards, trimming profiles, electrical cabinets, window gasketing, matting, various accessories, etc.
in electricity and electronics: jacketing of electrical cables for domestic use (electrical household appliances, telephones, control panels, etc.) and industrial use (electrical power stations, substations etc.), distribution boxes, electrical ducting, pipes, sockets, etc.

However building is the sector consuming most of the PVC production (about 53 %). The appreciation and continuous development of this material in the building and construction sector is thanks to the performance that PVC is able to offer: strength, cost-effectiveness, long life, recyclability, plasticity.

PVC windows, which are gaining more and more acceptance, represent the most effective way to save in both money and the environment. Moreover the ability of PVC to isolate the interior of the home from cold, rain, humidity and wind allows longer retention of the warmth while in the town PVC doors and windows can also protect against noise pollution.

It should also be remembered that the winter energy saving considerations are also applicable to summer air conditioning. Moreover this material has a long life, it does not require maintenance and is easy to recycle.