The PVC Formulation 2012 conference of AMI, which took place in March 2012, discussed the market trends and the latest techniques to enhance the environmental performance of vinyl compounds. These compounds are used as an alternative to heavy metal materials.
VinylPlus reported that approximately 1 million tonnes of post-consumer PVC were recycled in the 27 European countries. According to the ACC, about 50% of resin was utilized in extrusion processes in the U.S. in 2010. Simultaneously in Europe, Baerlocher estimated that the PVC window profile market reached 2.5 million tonnes in 2010. Turkey is the largest manufacturer of PVC window profiles with 590 ktonnes, second being Germany with 580 ktonnes followed by Russia with 443 ktonnes.
PVC is made sustainable by using ethylene feedstocks from bio-based sources along with bio- plasticisers, impact modifiers and other ingredients. Segetis is coordinating with Arkema to develop a new bio-based plasticiser. V-Ziclus, a general purpose plasticiser from Varteco, helps to reduce cost in the range of 3%-16% compared to DINP. PolyOne offers reFlex 100, a novel bio-based high solvating plasticiser, which can be used as an alternative to butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP).
Several PVC products are produced in white color by using various grades of titanium dioxide, which have different undertone variations ranging from bluish to transparent. In addition, they have properties like weatherability and hydrophobic or hydrophilic. Sachtleben Chemie has explored the effects of using different grades of titanium dioxide and BASF has also studied the colour issues in PVC in terms of colour retention and quality.
Thus, the major trend in PVC compounding sector in 2012 is the shift towards environmentally-friendly ingredients and renewable additives. AMI’s next global networking event for the PVC industry, PVC Formulation 2013, will be held at the Hilton Hotel in Dusseldorf, Germany from March 12 to 14, 2013.
Source: http://www.amiplastics.com/