PVC production ranks third of the synthetic polymer of plastic in the world. Rigid vinyl, also known as unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC), is a strong, non-toxic and lightweight film. Calendered unplasticized PVC film (thickness <0.010 in.) and sheet (thickness >0.010 in.), due to their unique combination of properties, i.e., low cost, chemical resistance, barrier properties, strength,low level of toxicity (when properly formulated and compounded), and high gloss and transparency, are ideal candidates for the packaging industry.
The non-food-packaging applications of unplasticized PVC include the following markets:
- 1.Medical supplies, such as boxes for syringes and thermometer kits
- 2.Cosmetics and toiletries, such as packaging for lipsticks,eye shadow, eyebrow pencils, and mascara
- 3.Pens and lighters, razors and blades, and air freshener containers
- 4. Tools and hardware
Among the non-packaging usages of unplasticized PVC film and sheet, the following fast growing markets exist:
- 1. Stationery supplies, such as notebook covers, wallet envelopes, and box lids.
- 2. Lighting and signs: both applications use the same gage, mostly translucent, highly glossy sheeting.
- 3. Mobile home skirting, 30 mils thick, opaque sheeting with a matte finish.
- 4. Floppy disks: a floppy disk serves as the magnetic memory storage component of the small desk-top computers. The disk consists of a magnetic layer sandwiched between two layers of rigid PVC.
- 5. Miscellaneous markets, such as credit cards, thermoformed sheet and ceiling tiles, and wall coverings as woodlike finish.
