Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-U)
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TECHNICAL DATA SHEET: KEY CHARACTERISTICS AND APPLICATIONS
Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-U)
General Information:
- Product Name: Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-U)
- Classification: Rigid thermoplastic
Typical Properties:
- Density: 1.35 – 1.45 g/cm³
- Tensile Strength: 40 – 55 MPa
- Elongation at Break: 20 – 50%
- Tensile Modulus: 2,000 – 3,000 MPa
- Vicat Softening Point: 75 – 85°C
- Notched Izod Impact Strength: 2.5 – 8.0 kJ/m² (depends on test conditions and specific grades)
- Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion: 60 – 80 x 10^(-6) K^(-1)
- Dielectric Constant: 3.0 – 4.5
- Volume Resistivity: >10^15 ohm.cm
Features and Benefits:
- Rigidity: PVC-U is rigid and durable with good impact strength.
- Chemical Resistance: Offers resistance to many acids, alkalis, salts, and organic compounds.
- Weather Resistance: Exceptional resistance to UV radiation and weathering.
- Non-Conductive: Excellent electrical insulation properties.
- Low Maintenance: PVC-U products typically require little to no maintenance.
- Flame Retardancy: Inherently self-extinguishing and flame retardant.
Applications:
- Building & Construction: Window frames, doors, cladding, and fascia.
- Piping Systems: For potable water, sewage, and drainage.
- Electrical: Conduits, electrical boxes, and cable insulation.
- Medical: Medical devices and components.
- General Purpose: Signboards, profiles, and shutters.
Processing Methods:
- Extrusion (pipes, profiles, window frames)
- Injection Molding (fittings, components)
- Thermoforming (limited applications)
Environmental Impact and Recycling:
- PVC-U can be mechanically recycled, but chemical recycling is more complex due to the chlorine content.
- Proper disposal is crucial as PVC-U combustion can release hydrochloric acid.
- Efforts are being made to improve PVC-U recycling through better collection, sorting, and processing techniques.
Storage and Handling:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Handle with care to avoid mechanical damage.
- Avoid exposure to high temperatures which can cause deformation.
Safety Information:
- PVC-U is safe for various consumer and industrial applications.
- When processing PVC-U, proper ventilation is essential to avoid inhaling fumes or degradation products.
- PVC-U is difficult to ignite but will release hydrochloric acid and other toxic gases when burned. It should be kept away from open flames.
Note: This technical data sheet provides general information and typical values for PVC-U. Actual specifications can differ based on the manufacturer and specific product grade. Always refer to manufacturer-specific data sheets for detailed information on a particular product.
Disclaimer: The information provided is “as is” without any warranties. Users are advised to conduct their own verification and testing for specific applications.
