Flexible PVC Alloys Offer Durable, Low-Cost Solutions
The opportunities for compounding polymers with other polymers, chemical additives, inorganic fillers, and reinforcing fibers are almost endless. Most products of polymer alloys are designed to take advantage of the synergistic improvements as compared to the parent components, lower cost, and improve processing. The main advantages of the blend systems are simple preparation and easy control of physical properties by compositional change. This flexibility has been the catalyst for a wide diversity of applications for polymeric materials.
PVC Properties—Modify and Enhance
The physical and chemical modifications involved with polymer engineering translate science into practice. One such method is incorporating different polymers into physical blends. These alloys are achieved due to weaker inter-molecular forces (van der Waals, dipole-dipole, hydrogen bonding), rather than covalently bonding different polymer blocks together. Developed by both chemical and physical means, the scope of polymer alloy systems is vast; but with the physical blending of thermodynamically compatible polymers, there is less cost associated with modifying properties. Thus, development in this area is now focusing on thermoplastic blends.
Compatible TPU Chemistries with Vinyl
Not all thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) are fully compatible with vinyl and the selection of TPU should be based on the application. Both polyester and polyether based TPU can be used, with polyester-based TPU being more frequently used and constitutes the majority of commercially available TPU. By matching the needs of an application to PVC/TPU alloys, Presco has been able to develop an extensive line of cost-effective and high-quality options to meet a wide array of uses. While Presco initially used low amounts of TPU polymer in its alloy compound, our R&D team set out to create new alloys in response to a client’s need for a higher loading of TPU for enhanced physical performance as compared to a standard PVC formulation. Alloys that would fit both the customer’s application and budget.
Performance Features and Cost Savings of PVC Alloy
The initial TPU/PVC formulation, originally created by Presco for just one customer, has proved to be a blend that could be utilized in a variety of applications. Meeting high durability standards, our current TPU alloys feature enhanced tear and abrasion strength, improved properties for oil and chemical resistance, and protect against cracking in winter weather, all adding to the film’s lifespan. Furthermore, the alloys provide the enhanced strength and density similar to that of 100% TPU films. In addition, Presco TPU alloys can be extruded down to an amazingly thin 2.5 millimeters, all without an increase in cost.
Presco Alternative Polymer Options and Current Film Applications
Since 2017, Presco has been offering Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) film extrusion capabilities to their clients. A member of the polyolefin family, EVA marks Presco’s first PVC-free manufacturing capability.
Our engineered films (all chemistries) can be found in items such as blood pressure cuffs, brattice curtains, laminate flooring, military tents, awnings and much more. Learn more about how our products are used in numerous industries.