MATERIAL GUIDE / OTHER MATERIAL ENQUIRIES

Polyvinyl chloride

A versatile material supplied in rigid and flexible formulations that require separate identification.

UNDERSTANDING PVC

Start with the material.
Build the specification.

PVC is used in products ranging from rigid building profiles to flexible coverings and cable insulation. Its formulation is especially important: additives help determine flexibility, colour, weathering and other characteristics. An enquiry should distinguish rigid from flexible PVC and identify the original application, known composition and any attached materials. These notes explain the polymer family. Any proposed route needs an individual assessment of the material and its intended next use.

Typical applications

Window and door profiles
Pipes and fittings
Cable insulation and ducting
Flooring and coverings

Points to consider

Rigid or flexible formulation
Original product and known composition
Additives, reinforcement and attached materials
Colour, condition and preparation
Individual material and end-use assessment

Applications describe general uses of this polymer family. A particular recycled grade still needs to be assessed against the intended process and end use. Material acceptance and supply availability are confirmed for each enquiry.

Further material reading

British Plastics Federation: PVC ↗

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