PVC is one of the most versatile plastics in the world due to its ability to be formulated to achieve different physical and mechanical properties. For this reason, it has found applications across a wide range of industries and is considered one of the most widely used plastics worldwide. It is extensively used in the construction industry because it is relatively cost-effective compared to other plastics and because PVC is inherently flame retardant.
By its nature, PVC resin is a fine, porous, colorless, and odorless powder that has no practical use on its own. It requires the additives supplied by Chemical Additives de México in order to make a given finished product. There are functional additives that aid in PVC processing, as well as additives that impart properties to the final product. These are incorporated into the resin through a mixing process involving high speeds and temperatures.
Our experience has taught us that polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a complex polymer to formulate, requiring extensive technical knowledge to fully understand the interaction among all the variables involved. One of its key advantages is the ability to modify its physical properties, allowing it to become either a very flexible or a rigid plastic depending on the requirements of the product being manufactured.
One of our technical sales representatives will contact you to gain a general understanding of the materials you produce and your specific requirements.
If your company currently uses any PVC additives, we review our product portfolio and, if a similar product is available, we provide the corresponding information. If a new solution is required, we then make a technical recommendation.
In such cases, a sample is offered along with the option to provide on-site technical assistance during your manufacturing process.
If you are just starting PVC production, we will be glad to assist you — we will send a sample and offer on-site technical assistance during your manufacturing process.
There are three main PVC processing groups, each with its own variations: extrusion, injection molding, and calendering. Based on the selected process and operating conditions, the formulator must carefully choose the set of additives required to achieve a proper finished product. We invite you to consult with one of our technicians for guidance on this matter.
This parameter is essential to determine the level of flexibility your product requires to meet its final properties and to be processed without issues. Grades range from highly flexible, as in hose (Shore A), through semi-rigid, such as injection-molded parts, to rigid, such as PVC trunking and pipe (Shore D).
It is important to define the service life that your company intends to offer for its products. This property enables PVC to retain its mechanical properties by absorbing UV radiation and dissipating it as heat. Our UV absorbers are also compatible with polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, and other plastics.
A product with a specific density has a direct impact on appearance, cost, and processing. It also significantly affects physical and mechanical properties, making it important to identify the type of mineral filler that will be added to the PVC.
This property is associated with rigid PVC and is available for both opaque and clear grades. It is commonly used in packaging and rigid profiles. The most common grades are acrylic- and butadiene-based, which allow energy dissipation throughout the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix.
An important property to maintain productivity in your process and prevent surface defects and/or thermal degradation. It is essential to pay close attention to the lubrication system in order to achieve the proper balance among the lubricants selected for your formulation.
Other properties to consider include flame resistance, resistance to extraction by chemical attack, low smoke emission, low crease whitening, easy mold release, low blocking, good cling or adhesion, among other factors.