Definition
PVC: Polyvinyl chloride is a polymer material polymerized by vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). PVC resin is usually a white or light yellow powder that needs to be modified before it can be used.
PE: Polyethylene is a thermoplastic resin polymerized from ethylene monomer. PE is an odorless, tasteless, non-toxic flammable white powder.
Apply
PVC: widely used in chemical, construction, electrical and other fields. Common products include anti-corrosion pipes, oil pipelines, sandals, raincoats, toys, artificial leather and so on. Rigid PVC is often used in the chemical industry in the storage tank lining, construction of corrugated panels, doors and Windows structure.
PE: mainly used in film products, pipes, injection molding products, wire cladding and so on. Because it is non-toxic, it is often used in food and drug packaging, medical devices, electrical industry insulation materials and other fields.
Property
PVC:
·Hard plastic, cheap.
·It has non-flammability, high strength, resistance to climate change and excellent geometric stability.
·It has strong resistance to oxidants, reducing agents and strong acids, but is not resistant to concentrated oxidizing acids and aromatic hydrocarbons and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
·Additives such as stabilizers and lubricants should be added during processing.
·At high temperatures, toxic hydrogen chloride gas may be released.
PE:
·Typical thermoplastic, non-toxic and easy to stain.
·Good chemical stability, cold resistance, radiation resistance, good electrical insulation.
·Good toughness, but relatively soft, can be broken after stretching.
·It burns with a yellow flame and the smell of burning candles.
·Less dense than water, it floats when submerged.
Security
PVC: Although PVC resin itself is non-toxic, its monomers and certain additives can be toxic. For example, if the content of vinyl chloride monomer in PVC food cling film is too high, it may decompose carcinogens in high temperature environment. In addition, some plasticizers and stabilizers can also be harmful to the human body.
PE: Non-toxic, suitable for food and drug packaging, high safety.
Cost:
PVC: The cost is usually lower, but installation may require more connecting accessories and construction difficulty.
PE: Although the unit cost may be higher, it may have certain advantages in construction costs and maintenance costs in the long run due to the reduction of connectors and simplified installation procedures.
Sum up
PVC and PE have their own advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different application scenarios. PVC has good chemical stability and high strength, but there may be certain health risks; PE is known for its non-toxic, easy processing and good physical properties, and is more suitable for food and drug packaging and other fields. The choice of materials should be based on the specific application needs and safety considerations.
