PVC FORMULATION | ADDITIVES
PVC formulation additive suppliers are continuing to develop alternatives to older, less sustainable technologies. Chris Saunders finds out what’s new
PVC additives evolve in tough environment
Due to its durability, chemical resistance, and low cost, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most versatile and widely used polymers in the world. To tailor it for specific applications and to overcome its inherent limitations, various additives are incorpo- rated in PVC which play a crucial role in enhancing the material’s performance and functionality. For example, PVC is prone to degradation when exposed to heat, light, and reactive chemicals, so stabilisers are often added. A report by Intellect Insights Journal estimated the global PVC Addi- tives market size to be $3.2bn in 2022, and this figure is expected to increase to $3.9bn by 2028 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% during the review period. The automotive manufacturing sector is actively trying to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions in car interiors, which arise from sources including PVC artificial leather. South Korean chemical manufacturer Songwon says it is actively developing new stabilisers to meet changing regulations and specifications of the international PVC industry and has been promoting SONGSTAB CZ-SA20 against standard liquid barium zinc (BaZn) stabilisers used in the automo- tive artificial leather industry. The Songwon product is a solid calcium-zinc (CaZn) stabiliser that imparts high heat stability, offers good processability, and
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meets low odour requirements. As a solid stabiliser, it does not contain any volatile solvents or liquid materials that contribute to high VOCs, causing unpleasant odours and creating a high value in reflectometric and gravimetric fogging tests. SONGSTAB CZ-SA20 also helps reduce amine discolouration which is caused by amine catalysts in the polyurethane foam backing migrating into the PVC itself causing it to degrade and discolour. Generally, boosters are added with the conven- tional liquid barium zinc (BaZn) stabilisers to negate the effect of these migrating amines. PVC will naturally discolour over time, but with the right formulation and a good choice of stabiliser, the ser- vice life of products can be significantly extended. The company says SONGSTAB CZ-SA20 has been proven to slow ageing of artificial leather in extreme conditions such as those in regions with high or low temperatures or increased humidity. It also emphasises the importance of processors understanding that PVC stabiliser performance should not only be judged with regards to heat stability, but also in many other areas. A recent study by Italian chemical company
Reagens, whose portfolio comprises a variety of stabiliser technologies, challenges the common perception that harsh weather conditions can lead to accelerated colour fading in PVC. The company
June 2024 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 33
Main image: Demand is growing in both rigid and flexible PVC applications
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK / STUDIO HARMONY
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