The polymerization of the monomer vinyl chloride produces the amorphous thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

PVC is hard and brittle. Therefore it is also called rigid PVC.
Its abbreviation is PVC-U, where U stands for the word “unplasticized”.
Rigid PVC is for example used for pipes, window profiles and records.

Plasticizers provide PVC with elasticity. Therefore it is called soft PVC.
Its abbreviation is PVC-P, where P stands for the word “plasticized”.
A common use of soft PVC is cable sheathing and flooring.

PVC is very durable. Environmental influences, such as sun, sea water and air can hardly harm the material.

PVC in Plastic Industry by IBN


Plastic: Cable sheathing made of PVC.

PVC in Plastic Industry by IBN


Floor covering made from PVC

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This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.