Overview Key Applications Over 90% of the plasticizers used in thermoplastic polymers are used in PVC. The plasticized polymer market and the plasticized PVC market are largely one and the same although some plasticizer is also used in acrylic polymers, polyurethanes, polystyrene even polyolefins. Some of the major end uses are discussed below. Film and Sheeting - Products made from flexible PVC film and sheet include roofing membranes, geomembranes, upholstery, luggage, advertising signs, swimming pool liners and others Flooring - Flexible PVC flooring products include resilient sheet flooring, vinyl composition tile, luxury vinyl tile, vinyl backed carpet tile Wire and Cable - Flexible PVC is a good electrical insulator with good processability and a useful service temperature range hence it is the perfect material for electrical applications such as insulation and jacketing for electrical conductors, insulation for fiber optic cables Coated Fabrics - PVC synthetic coated fabrics offer weather-resistance, and have excellent strength and durability. Used in industries which support architecture, lifestyle, sports, advertising, defense, mining, food & agriculture, automobiles and transportation. Products include tarpaulins, tents outdoor furniture and others Consumer goods - Apparel, footwear, packaging Medical - Blood bags, IV tubing, biohazard containment structures, other medical devices Non-PVC - Small amounts of PVC type plasticizers are used in other polymers including acrylics, polyurethanes, polystyrene View Several Plasticizer Options Available for PVC » Most plasticized PVC products are durable goods, products with long service lives. Phthalates, because of their low volatility, low water solubility, good resistance to sunlight and temperature extremes, good compatibility with the PVC polymer and generally good resistance to biodegradation, are well suited for use in such products. Examples include: Flexible PVC roofing membranes Geomembranes Wire and cable insulation Phthalate plasticizers have been very difficult to replace in these end uses. Likewise, because of their relatively high solvating strength for the PVC polymer and relatively low viscosities, phthalate plasticizers have been found to be more easily processed in flexible PVC compounds as compared to at least some of the phthalate replacements. Note however, that nearly half of the 7 million tons of plasticizer used annually is DEHP and DEHP, a general purpose type plasticizer, can be replaced in many products. Get Inspired: Implement a well-defined methodology to select the right alternatives for phthalates (low-molecular weight) that cater to the stringent health & environmental regulations » Suppliers Brands