It was in 1838 that PVC was accidentally discovered but it was not very workable and its application remained limited. Over the decades there were many breakthroughs that substantially increased the applications of PVC. Later in 1960 its durability was enhanced and that’s when PVC grew incredibly, making it a wonder material.
PVC became the favourite of the construction industry because of its resistance to light, chemicals and corrosion. Improvements to the ability of PVC to handle high temperatures opened up a huge opportunity in the sphere for pipes for both water supply and sewage. PVC's low cost, excellent durability, stability and processability, make it the preferred choice for numerous industries such as health care, IT, transport, textiles and construction. Not surprisingly, PVC rapidly grew to become the third largest selling plastic in the world.
Continuous research in PVC kept increasing the versatility and spectrum of applications. Its flexibility, elasticity, impact resistance, anti-fouling, prevention of microbial growth, anti-mist and fire-retarding properties were extended by adding plasticizers, additives, modifiers and colouring agents. These developments predictably gave a huge impetus to its demand as newer applications were explored.
The process to manufacture PVC kept getting refined too and today most plants use crude oil or natural gas (43%) with rock salt (57%). With rock salt being abundantly available all over the world, the cost of manufacture too became a solid advantage in favour of PVC. Another facet that makes PVC a winner is its ease of colouring, printing and adhesion which further opened up many vistas of application particularly in furniture, housing materials, floorings, wall coverings, electrical appliances and signboards. It’s hardly surprising that the demand for PVC now exceeds 35 million tonnes per annum and is growing at 5% per annum.
Let’s take a look at some of the key applications of PVC
Piping is the largest sector for PVC application. It is ideal for pressurised water supply lines particularly for agricultural use as well as casing, column and riser pipes for borewells. In addition to plumbing pipes it also serves effectively for waste water and soil collection. PVC pipes are also wide used for water harvesting systems.
PVC pipes are also wide used for water harvesting systems.
The Reasons
Window frames earlier were largely made from wood or metal, but with the shortage of natural resources, the Germans pioneered window frames from PVC. Goodrich made window frames that were attractively designed but more economical. These new window/door systems boosted energy savings and comfort in homes.
The Reasons
Roofing & Waterproofing Membranes
Packaging
Medical & Healthcare
Lifestyle Products
