Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Structure, Properties, and Applications

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is essential in chemistry and helps students understand various practical and theoretical applications related to this topic.

What is Polyvinyl Chloride in Chemistry?

A polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a widely used synthetic polymer created by the polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer, represented as CH₂=CHCl. 

This concept appears in chapters related to addition polymers, monomers and polymers, and polymerization reactions, making it a foundational part of your chemistry syllabus.

Molecular Formula and Composition

The molecular formula of polyvinyl chloride is (C₂H₃Cl)ₙ. It consists of repeating vinyl chloride units, where each unit has two carbons, three hydrogens, and one chlorine atom. PVC is categorized under the class of thermoplastic polymers known as vinyl polymers.

Preparation and Synthesis Methods

Polyvinyl chloride is prepared mainly by polymerizing vinyl chloride monomers via free radical addition. Industrially, two main methods are used: suspension polymerization and emulsion polymerization. 

The suspension method is preferred as it results in larger polymer particles, while emulsion gives smaller, fine particles suited for flexible PVC products.

Physical Properties of Polyvinyl Chloride

Polyvinyl chloride appears as a white, brittle solid. It is odorless, insoluble in water and alcohol, but slightly soluble in tetrahydrofuran (THF). The density is around 1.3–1.45 g/cm³ for rigid PVC and 1.1–1.35 g/cm³ for flexible PVC. 

Its melting point ranges from 100–260°C. PVC is a good insulator, with high resistance to acids, bases, oils, and fats.

Chemical Properties and Reactions

PVC is chemically resistant to most acids, bases, and salts, making it corrosion-resistant. It can burn at high temperatures (producing HCl gas), and is affected by UV light, which can cause degradation. Plasticizers are often mixed in flexible PVC to make it softer and less brittle.

Frequent Related Errors

• Confusing polyvinyl chloride with polyethene (polyethylene).
• Thinking PVC is the same as vinyl chloride (the monomer is toxic, but the polymer is stable).
• Forgetting that plasticizers are needed for flexibility in PVC.
• Mistaking rigid PVC (pipes) for flexible PVC (cables, sheets).

Uses of Polyvinyl Chloride in Real Life

Polyvinyl chloride is one of the most used plastics globally. Its main uses include:

• Pipes for water supply and sewage systems due to corrosion resistance.
• Window frames, doors, and building materials.
• Electrical wire insulation thanks to its insulating properties.
• Medical equipment like IV bags and tubing.
• Flooring, raincoats, synthetic leather, and sports gear.

Relation with Other Chemistry Concepts

Polyvinyl chloride is closely related to topics such as thermoplastics vs thermosetting plastics and polyethylene, helping students compare plastic types. It's also discussed in properties of plastics and environmental chemistry.

Step-by-Step Reaction Example

1. Start with the monomer vinyl chloride (CH₂=CHCl).

2. Initiate the free radical polymerization by using a suitable initiator (like benzoyl peroxide) under controlled heat and pressure.

3. Each vinyl chloride monomer opens its double bond, joining end to end — forming a long PVC chain:

4. This forms the white, solid plastic PVC.

Lab or Experimental Tips

Remember: PVC is brittle unless plasticizers are added. Look for a white, odorless solid that floats on water and does not dissolve in it. Vedantu educators often use pipe and cable samples to easily show rigid vs flexible PVC in class.

Try This Yourself

• Write the IUPAC name of polyvinyl chloride.
• Draw the structural formula of vinyl chloride monomer.
• List two household items made from PVC.

Final Wrap-Up

We explored polyvinyl chloride (PVC)—its structure, properties, reactions, and real-life importance. For more in-depth explanations and exam-prep tips, explore live classes and notes on Vedantu, where concepts like PVC are taught with clear examples and interactive guidance.