Some aspects of thermodegradation and stabilisation of flexible poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) compounds have been studied by chemiluminescence (CL). The oxidation of PVC is shown to be chemiluminescent and the CL behaviour is sufficiently similar to that of a model polyene, ƒÒ-carotene, to suggest that the CL arises from the oxidation of polyenes formed by dehydrochlorination and that its intensity can be a measure of polyene formation. CL monitoring is shown to be useful in differentiating functionalities of different stabilizers in terms of their ability to retard polyene formation.

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) compounds require metal lubrication and polymer to polymer lubrication for good processing performance. This presentation expands the theory of PVC lubrication and helps understand the lubrication mechanisms and roles. The lubricants’ roles are defined in terms of 1) metal release, 2) PVC primary particle to PVC primary particle flow unit lubrication, and 3) synergistic slip in a layer working with the first two functions of the lubricants. The optimization of these lubricant functions requires a combination of lubricants (surfactants) of various structures.

Plasticizers are used primarily to soften PVC, but other significant applications also require their use. In this presentation, the basics of plasticizer technology, the types of plasticizers available, and plasticizer selection will be discussed. The discussion will then address specific performance examples: a plastisol sealant used in automotive applications; polysulfide sealants used by the insulating glass industry; and latex caulks. Types of plasticizers used in these applications will be discussed, as well as the effect of plasticizer selection on product performance.