Thermoplastics

Advancing PVC: A Safe and Eco-Friendly Approach to Enhance Thermal Stability

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) stands tall among commercial plastics, but its thermal instability at processing temperatures poses challenges. To fortify PVC products against high temperatures, conventional heat stabilizers are often employed, yet they come with toxic baggage harmful to both humans and the environment.

In a groundbreaking study, a revolutionary solution is presented—a blend of calcium/zinc stearate heat stabilizer and green Expandable graphite (EG)—crafted through a safe hydrothermal process with a focus on non-toxic, environmentally friendly additives.

The investigation delves into the thermal stability of PVC using advanced techniques such as Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for scrutinizing the heat stabilizer structures. Mechanical properties are assessed using universal testing equipment, while thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) provides crucial insights.

Process of polyvinyl chloride film flow sheet through roll milling.

Results

TGA results unveil a significant improvement in thermal stability, with a mere 43.49% weight loss at 342°C for the Ca/Zn-stearate sample compared to a substantial 55.87% at 260°C for the EG-incorporated sample. Differential scanning calorimetry showcases a remarkable 67°C increase in the glass transition temperature, affirming the enhanced thermal stability of PVC. Mechanical tests substantiate this, revealing higher tensile strength and elongation at break for samples with EG.

Beyond thermal stability, the burning test underlines the resilience of EG-containing samples, retaining color and structure even after exposure to 180°C heat. This innovative approach not only boosts PVC’s thermal stability but also aligns seamlessly with eco-friendly principles, presenting a promising avenue for elevating PVC properties sustainably.

You can read more about this topic in the article “Utilizing a blend of expandable graphite and calcium/zinc stearate as a heat stabilizer environmentally friendly for polyvinyl chloride” by Ashraf MorsyAbbas AnwarHossam AnwarH. Abdel-HamidAya Soliman, published in the November 2023 issue of SPE Polymers.

By Plastics Engineering | December 22, 2023

Recent Posts

  • People

Breaking Barriers: Women in Engineering at PET Technologies

At PET Technologies, women are not only challenging stereotypes. They're driving innovation and shaping the…

23 hours ago
  • Extrusion

Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Polymer Extrusion

Polymer extrusion wastes a significant amount of energy on inefficiencies. Here is how modern technologies…

2 days ago
  • Sports & Recreation

Hydrophilic Coating Gives Golf Balls a Competitive Edge

A new hydrophilic coating could give players an edge, enabling them to maintain control and…

2 days ago
  • Industry

Upcycling Post-Industrial Recycled PP for Injection Molding Applications

As industries strive to integrate recycled materials into mainstream manufacturing, researchers continue to explore ways…

3 days ago
  • Industry

4 Companies Advancing Sustainability with Recycled Content

Companies worldwide are reevaluating their production processes. One major shift is the use of recycled…

4 days ago
  • 3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing

Cutting Emissions Using PLA in 3D Printing

On-site 3D printing of single-use consumables can help life science laboratories reduce carbon emissions.

7 days ago