PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is produced by polymerisation of Vinyl Chloride Monomer.
In order to produce commercial grades of the polymer - which meet various specification
requirements - it is compounded with other additives using extrusion and mixing techniques.
Depending on the additives used, properties such as flexibility, clarity, colour, heat
stability, density and chemical resistance can be controlled and modified. This compound
can be produced in granular or powder form.
PVC has been used across all industries, including medical, for the last 50 years. It is one
of the most widely researched and used thermoplastic materials today.
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Historically, PVC has been used as a replacement material for rubbers and glass components.
Other uses have developed rapidly due to its ability to optimise performance and safety
requirements at a low cost.
PVC is characterised by a high degree of biocompatibility, transparency - where needed -
and flexibility under changing temperatures and humidities.
PVC is easily sterilised to meet a number of industry and medical standards. It also has
excellent water and chemical resistance.
Flexible PVC’s usually use a pthalate plasticiser. The most important pthalate in high
volume use is DEHP, which is listed by the European Pharmacopoeia and recommended for
softening disposable medical items, such as tubing and blood bags.
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