Cellular PVC-U: Current Technology and Future Challenges

Abstract

This paper discusses the formulation technology involved in the production of rigid PVC foams and typical formulations for rigid foam sheet and profile are presented. Particular reference is given to acrylic processing aids and their effect on melt extensibility and strength. Measurements carried out using an elongational rheometer have confirmed that melt extensibility and rupture stress are increased with increasing addition level and/or molecular weight of the processing aid used.The challenges facing the PVC foam industry and also addressed. These include environmental issues, such as the need to develop formulations with sustainable additives and to increase recycling of PVC products. Future developments include the use of organic-based stabilisers (OBS) and the use of nanofillers. This paper was presented as an invited contribution at the 8

Compression behavior of soft PVC foams obtained by cardanol-derived plasticizer

“…29 Also, in Table 1, the low p values obtained when considering Factor 2 and Factor 3 indicate the relevance of both processing temperature and AZDC amount on the density of the foams. Referring to Figure 4(b) and (c), also calculated according to equation (1), the density of the foams decreases with increasing processing temperature and AZDC content. The effect of both factors is in agreement with the basic theories of foaming.…”

“…Even in this case, the low p values obtained for each of the factors indicate the statistically relevant effect on the compressive modulus of the foams. Such effects are highlighted in Figure 6(a) to (c), where the MEA, calculated according to equation (1), are reported for the type of plasticizer, processing temperature and AZDC content, respectively. The values of the modulus, reported in Figure 6, are in the range of those measured on PVC foams of similar densities in previous works.…”

“…The very low p value obtained for the Factor 1 indicates the relevant effect of the type of plasticizer on the density of the foams. In particular, the MEA reported in Figure 4(a), calculated according to equation (1), show that PVC plasticized with ECA is characterized by a lower density compared to PVC plasticized by DEHP. This is in agreement with the results reported in Figure 2, showing the higher foaming efficiency for PVC plasticized by ECA.…”

“…Soft polymeric foams are widely used in many applications, such as textiles, toys, sport goods, furniture, packaging among others, for their good performances, which include high strength/weight ratio, lightness, energy absorption and insulation properties. 1 Although hypothetically any polymer could be used for the production of foams, PVC is often chosen for its low cost and easy processability. 2,3 PVC foams have been obtained using azodicarbonamide (AZDC) as blowing agent.…”

Properties of rigid polyvinyl chloride foam composites reinforced with different shape fillers

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam is one of the most commonly used polymers in building industry due to its low cost, low density, fire retardancy, high insulation, and damping properties. [10][11][12][13] Fillers such as mica, calcium carbonate, talc, glass fibers, carbon fibers, and wood fibers have been used to improve the properties of PVC composites. [14][15][16] Mica is a flaky-like crystalline alumino-silicate with a high aspect ratio.…”