Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) plastic is the third globally produced plastic. Global use of PVC resin exceeds 40 million tonnes per year, and the demand is growing. Globally, PVC use grows by an average of 3% per year, with higher growth rates in developing countries. Here we will learn about some properties and applications of PVC plastic in this blog of TLD Vietnam.

What Are The Thermoplastic Resins “PVC”?

With more than 45 million tons produced each year, PVC comes in third place as the most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer. In contrast to other thermoplastics, PVC resin is produced in powder form. The rest of the thermoplastics are supplied in the form of compounds as granules already mixed with additives (like the antioxidants, etc). That’s why long-term storage is possible since the material is resistant to oxidation and degradation. During the processing stage, various additives and pigments are added to PVC. The aim is to manufacture multiple PVC products of different properties.

How Is PVC Plastic Manufactured?

The manufacturing of PVC plastic involves several key steps to create a strong and durable material.

• Polymerisation: The process starts with the polymerisation of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) to form polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. The VCM is subjected to high pressure and temperatures to initiate the reaction, which is catalysed by a peroxide or other initiators. The polymerisation reaction results in the formation of powdered PVC resin.
• Mixing: The PVC resin is then mixed with various additives, such as stabilizers, lubricants and pigments. This improves its properties and performance. The additives are mixed with the PVC resin to form a homogeneous mixture.
• Extrusion: The PVC mixture is then fed into an extruder, a machine that melts the mixture and pushes it through a die to form a continuous profile. The profile can have different shapes and sizes, depending on the design specifications.
• Cooling: The extruded profile is cooled by passing it through a water bath or air cooling system to solidify it and maintain its shape
• Cutting and finishing: The cooled profile is then cut to the desired length and finished according to specific application requirements, such as drilling holes, welding or gluing.

What Is PVC Mainly Used For?

It’s the third most-consumed polymer worldwide because PVC, besides many other reasons, is a cheap polymer. PVC raw materials offer a wide variety of uses and applications. By adding chemical additives to the PVC, you can get countless uses, products, and applications. 

Construction

PVC is essential in the construction industry, utilized for pipes, fittings, siding, roofing membranes, window frames, and flooring. Its resistance to chemicals, low cost, and easy installation make it ideal for these applications.

Packaging

PVC’s flexibility, transparency, and ability to form airtight seals make it suitable for shrink-wrap film, cling film, blister packs, and bottles. These properties help protect and preserve various products.

Electrical

In the electrical industry, PVC serves as insulation for wires and cables. It provides excellent electrical insulation, resists moisture and chemicals, and protects cables from damage.

Automotive

PVC is used for door panels, upholstery, dashboard covers, and wire harnesses in the automotive industry. Its durability, impact resistance, and moldability make it valuable for vehicle components.

Medical

PVC’s biocompatibility, flexibility, and ability to withstand sterilization are essential for medical tubing, IV bags, blood bags, and medical devices.

Consumer Goods

PVC is found in toys, furniture, shoes, inflatable structures, and household items. Its ability to be molded into various shapes and colors ensures its widespread use in everyday products.

Mechanical properties of PVC plastic

PVC plastic has excellent mechanical properties that make it a versatile material for various applications

Abrasion resistance

It is abrasion-resistant, meaning it can withstand wear and tear over time. This property is especially useful in high-traffic areas or industries requiring durable materials. 

Lightweight

PVC is also lightweight, making it easy to handle, transport, and install without adding unnecessary weight to structures. 

Impact resistance

Despite being lightweight, PVC is tough and offers good impact resistance, providing reliable performance even under demanding conditions. 

Mechanical strength

Its mechanical strength ensures durability in applications like pipes, flooring, and roofing, where long-lasting performance is essential.

PVC Plastic Market Overview

The global PVC market size reached USD 47.0 billion in 2024. It is expected that the market to reach USD 65.7 billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% during 2025-2033.

The construction sector dominates the PVC market due to rising demand for improved infrastructure, driven by rapid industrial and developmental growth. PVC is widely used in construction for its low cost, lightweight nature, and ease of processing, with high tensile strength making it ideal for various building applications. However, rigid PVC is less flexible than its elastic counterpart, affecting its use across different end-user applications. This trend is expected to continue during the forecast period.

In terms of applications, the pipes and fittings segment holds the largest market share and is projected to maintain its dominance. PVC pipes are extensively used for transporting hazardous chemicals, wastewater, drinking water, and drainage systems, owing to their robustness, cost-effectiveness, and ease of assembly. The demand for PVC in pipes and fittings is expected to rise significantly throughout the period.

The increasing shift towards sustainable PVC is currently positively influencing the polyvinyl chloride market. Besides this, companies are actively seeking ways to lower their environmental footprint, and this trend is driving the demand for eco-friendly PVC products. Manufacturers are developing innovative processes and using recycled materials to produce PVC, which is contributing to the sustainable growth of the market. Additionally, consumers and businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of environmentally friendly materials, and this awareness is shaping the PVC market in a positive way.

Furthermore, the continuous refinement of sustainable PVC formulations results in products that boast enhanced performance characteristics while remaining environmentally friendly. This innovation is capturing the attention of industries that heavily rely on PVC, such as construction, automotive, and packaging, as they recognize the dual benefit of reducing their carbon footprint and improving the overall quality of their products.

Conclusion

In short, PVC is a remarkable material with a wide range of applications. Its unique properties, such as durability, chemical resistance, and cost-effectiveness, make it an essential material in modern manufacturing. Understanding the composition, properties, types, and uses of PVC highlights its importance and adaptability. Although there are challenges related to its environmental impact, advancements in recycling and sustainable practices continue to improve its role in providing practical, long-lasting solutions for diverse needs.

TLD Vietnam – Your Trusted Partner Of Plastic Resins

Fluctuations in PVC resin prices can have a significant impact on the PVC market. Price changes in PVC resin can affect the cost of production, which, in turn, may influence product pricing and market competitiveness. Manufacturers need to stay updated on the latest PVC resin prices to adjust their pricing strategies, optimize production processes, and manage their supply chain effectively. Additionally, buyers and consumers may also be affected by price changes, as they can influence the affordability and availability of PVC products in the market.

TLD Vietnam is proud to be a prestigious supplier of plastic resin for your projects. Our focus is on providing the most efficient material solutions that balance quality and cost. We offer a wide range of plastic resins, including PS, PE, PVC, PP, and PET. Additionally, we provide valuable insights into material knowledge, with information that is consistently updated to ensure accuracy and reliability.

With a strong global network spanning over 50 countries, we are committed to building enduring relationships through exceptional customer service. TLD Vietnam is committed to excellence worldwide. Contact us today for the best quotation!