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 an annual production exceeding 45 million tons, PVC ranks third among the most widely produced synthetic plastic polymers. Unlike other thermoplastics, which are typically supplied as compounded granules mixed with additives like antioxidants, PVC resin is produced in powder form. This allows for long-term storage due to its resistance to oxidation and degradation. During processing, various additives and pigments are incorporated into PVC to create products with diverse properties.
How Is PVC Plastic Manufactured?
The production of PVC plastic involves several essential steps to create a versatile material.
- Polymerisation: The process begins with the polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. VCM is subjected to high pressure and temperature, with a peroxide or other initiator catalyzing the reaction. The polymerisation reaction results in the formation of powdered PVC resin.
- Mixing: The PVC resin is blended with additives like stabilizers, lubricants, and pigments to enhance its properties and performance. These additives are thoroughly mixed with the resin to form a homogeneous mixture.
- Extrusion: The PVC mixture is fed into an extruder, which melts the material and forces it through a die to form a continuous profile. The profile’s shape and size vary based on design requirements.
- Cooling:Â 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 cut to the desired length and finished as needed for specific applications, which may involve drilling, 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.Â
Construction
PVC is widely used in construction for pipes, fittings, siding, roofing membranes, window frames, and flooring. Its chemical resistance, low cost, and ease of installation make it a preferred material.
Packaging
PVC’s flexibility, transparency, and ability to create airtight seals make it ideal for shrink-wrap, cling film, blister packs, and bottles, ensuring product protection and preservation.
Electrical
In the electrical sector, PVC is used for wire and cable insulation, offering excellent electrical insulation, moisture and chemical resistance, and protection against damage.
Automotive
PVC is employed in automotive applications like door panels, upholstery, dashboard covers, and wire harnesses, valued for its durability, impact resistance, and moldability.
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.Â
Lightweight
PVC is also lightweight, making it easy to handle, transport, and install without adding unnecessary weight to structures.Â
Impact resistance
Despite being lightweight, PVC is tough and offers good impact resistance, providing reliable performance even under demanding conditions.Â
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 growing emphasis on sustainable PVC is positively impacting the PVC market. Companies are actively working to reduce their environmental impact, boosting demand for eco-friendly PVC products. Manufacturers are adopting innovative processes and incorporating recycled materials to produce sustainable PVC, supporting market growth. Additionally, heightened awareness among consumers and businesses about the value of environmentally friendly materials is further shaping the PVC market positively.
Moreover, ongoing improvements in sustainable PVC formulations are delivering products with superior performance while maintaining eco-friendliness. This innovation is attracting industries like construction, automotive, and packaging, which value both the reduced carbon footprint and enhanced product quality.
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!
