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What is PVC?
Polyvinyl chloride, commonly abbreviated as PVC, is a thermoplastic polymer. It is the third most widely produced polymer after polyethylene and polypropylene. PVC has a wide range of applications in construction materials, toys, pipes, wires, medical devices, and more due to its low production cost, workability, and resistance to corrosion.
Chemical Structure and Properties of PVC
PVC is formed by the polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer. The chemical structure of PVC consists of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine atoms. It is a linear polymer with alternate single and double carbon-chlorine bonds. This molecular structure gives PVC its characteristic properties. PVC is a hard, stiff material with high tensile strength and excellent electrical insulation. It becomes flexible and pliable at higher temperatures but reverts to its original form when cooled. PVC is also noted for being lightweight, easy to work with, and offers good resistance to corrosion from acids, alkalis, and oil. Its toughness and durability make it suitable for a diverse set of applications.
Production Process for PVC