Vinyl

Inside Materials – PVDC

PVDC is a synthetic polymer with exceptional barrier properties. It has transformed industries such as food packaging and medical products.

Polyvinylidene Chloride is an essential polymer for protective barrier applications. Its versatility and ability to protect against moisture and contamination allow PVDC to play a fundamental role in the plastics industry.

You can also read: Inside Materials – PVC

Understanding Polyvinylidene Chloride

Manufacturers obtain this polymer through the polymerization of vinylidene chloride. Its molecular structure includes two chlorine atoms per repeating unit. This structure imparts unique properties, such as a notable barrier against gases and liquids. Additionally, it provides high chemical resistance and flame retardancy. These characteristics make PVDC ideal for applications where protection is crucial.

 

The table above presents the average properties of PVDC, offering insights into its material characteristics. The following abbreviations are used for clarity: A = Amorphous, Cr = Crystalline, C = Clear, E = Excellent, G = Good, P = Poor, O = Opaque, T = Transparent, R = Rockwell, S = Shore. Courtesy of Polyvinylidene Chloride—Science Direct.

Forms and Manufacturing Processes

While the most well-known form of PVDC is film, manufacturers also produce it as coatings, emulsions, and powders. They employ various processes to manufacture these different forms. It includes blown film extrusion, cast film extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, solution coating, and injection molding. Each method leverages the properties of Polyvinylidene Chloride to meet specific requirements across various applications.

Pursuing Sustainability in PVDC Development

In the realm of innovations, developers have prioritized sustainability in developing PVDC. For example, Solvay has developed DIOFAN ULTRA 736, a PVDC coating that resists high water vapor and uses thinner layers. This innovation enhances performance and reduces the carbon footprint of pharmaceutical blister films. This achieves a more compact and sustainable design.

Ultra-High Barrier PVDC coating solution for sustainable pharmaceutical blister films. Courtesy of Solvay.                                                                     

Leading Players in the PVDC Market

As the PVDC market evolves, leading companies such as SK Chemicals (PVDC before DOW), Kureha, Solvay, Asahi Kasei, Juhua Group, Nantong SKT, and Keguan Polymer lead the competition. These companies drive innovation and material development while addressing the challenge of sustainability. They expect future efforts to focus on improving sustainable production and advancing the recycling of PVDC.

By Laura Gonzalez | October 11, 2024

View Comments

  • Hej.
    I have come across PVdC in a food packaging and now I wonder if this fossil chemical will be broken down to for a plant usable chemical in my household compost.
    With the best
    Mikael :- )

Recent Posts

  • Composites

Natural and Mineral Fillers Improve UV Stability in Rotomolded Polyethylene

Natural and mineral fillers enhance UV resistance in rotomolded polyethylene, reducing surface oxidation and improving…

4 hours ago
  • 3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing

Customizable, 3D-Printable Non-Pneumatic Tires for Wheelchair Use

These honeycomb flexible-spoke non-pneumatic tires (FS-NPT) bring more comfort to wheelchair users.

2 days ago
  • Blow Molding

Custom Blow Molding Machines Redefine Packaging Efficiency

Manufacturers are shifting from standard blow molding systems to customized equipment, improving performance, flexibility, and…

3 days ago
  • Aerospace

Designing the World’s Largest Aircraft Through Smart Structural Analysis

Radia’s WindRunner, the world’s largest aircraft, advances with Collier Aerospace’s engineering tools for faster, lighter,…

4 days ago
  • Energy Generation

Capturing CO₂ with Recycled Household Plastics

Mixed plastic waste can be transformed into activated carbon through microwave pyrolysis, improving CO₂ capture…

5 days ago
  • Automotive & Transportation

On Track to Better Performance: Composites for Railroad Ties

Recycled plastic composites are transforming railroad ties, offering higher strength, longer life, and reduced train…

6 days ago