This single volume handbook offers a complete account of all aspects of PVC, from monomer manufacture to polymerization; the gamut of additives such as stabilizers, lubricants, plasticizers, impact modifiers, fillers, and reinforcing agents; blends and alloys; compounding and processing; characterization; combustion resistance and weatherability; product engineering design; applications; environmental and safety considerations; and the dynamics of the PVC industry. The handbook contains practical formulation information as well as a mechanistic view of why PVC behaves as it does.

From the Preface: “...Many of the fundamental technology discoveries related to PVC were made in the 1930's through the 1950's. Since those times, continuous improvement, broadening of applications, and process improvements for cost reduction and safety have been the mainstay of PVC research...I personally hope that this body of published and patented knowledge will result in a renaissance for PVC — resulting in many new applications and continued good growth.”

Target Audience: Plastics technologists, polymer and materials scientists, and other professionals and upper level students requiring a comprehensive understanding of poly(vinyl) chloride.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Vinyl Chloride Monomer

Polymerization

PVC Stabilizers and Lubricants

Plasticizers

Processing Aids and Impact Modifiers

Fillers and Reinforcing Agents

PVC Blends and Alloys

Compounding Processes

Flexible PVC

Specialty Grade PVC Resins

Physical Properties and Characterization of PVC

Flammability and Fire Performance

Weathering of PVC Compounds

Fabrication Processes

Product Engineering Design

PVC Applications, Their Standards and Regulations, and Starting Formulations

PVC Environmental, Health, Safety

PVC Industry Structure and Dynamics

Index