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Nanotechnology... infusing PVC for increased performance
Vinyl siding that can clean itself...
PVC sheet that is scratch resistant and won't fade...
PVC pipes that can withstand pressure 100-fold over its current thresh hold...
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Take a look at the world's top science and engineering universities and you will find large amounts of time and money going into the world's next revolution. Even more revealing of this world-changing technology, are the numerous funded projects set forth by federal and state level governments. But what does nano really mean to the PVC industry, and how will it affect the global PVC marketplace?
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PVC subscribers use keyword "PVC Nanocomposites" in our PVC news and PVC reports databank.
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While it's difficult to foresee what new market breakthroughs, or new applications the technology will provide the PVC industry [and it most certainly will], we can use existing markets and applications to calculate near-term impact. I've reviewed several published studies on nanotechnology in plastics to get a sense of what the academia predicts versus what industry pundits are forecasting. My assumptions on present market impact was confirmed, however, I was impressed by the growth rate projected.
Here are several bullets that were agreeable throughout my research:
• Demand for PVC nanocomposites will expand nearly 12% per year to 54 million pounds in 2010. While current commercial interest is largely in carbon black filled compounds for conductive applications, future demand for PVC nanocomposites based on nanoscale clay and minerals will flourish in the construction sector.
• Nanomaterials that provide flame-retardancy and increased strength will push PVC gains in pipe, windows, doors, wire and cable, siding and motor vehicles.
• Demand for PVC nanocomposites will predominantly be in rigid formulations in construction applications:
- Large-diameter pipe is expected to become a key market for PVC nanocomposites, benefitting from advantages such as fracture resistance, corrosion resistance, water-tight joints, high load bearing capabilities and installation ease.
- PVC siding, windows and doors are also major markets for PVC nanocomposites. Rigid PVC formulations for construction applications such as these often contain impact modifiers or mineral fillers for improved strength and toughness. Nanocomposites can provide similar properties at lower loadings than other additives, ultimately reducing the cost of PVC compounds — although the technology is currently impeded by high processing costs.
• Nanocomposites will benefit flexible PVC in certain applications. Flame retardance in wire and cable jacketing and furnishings can be enhanced using nanoclays. While clay can have a negative effect on plasticizers used in flexible PVC, researchers have developed a plasticizer based on coated nanoclay particles. Nanoscale oxides can also be used in flexible PVC for improved flame retardance and protection against ultraviolet light.
EDITOR'S KEY FACTOR: In many PVC markets, the cost of processing PVC nanocomposites, nano-fillers, and nano-additives are presently impeding nanotechnology growth. But not for long... at all. Nanoplastics are becoming a reality. The last fourteen months has seen a rash of commercial applications coming onto the market. Some of the main advantages of this technology are: better processing performance, cost advantages and enhanced material performance. PVC processors understand that this technology will ultimately lower their costs and produce a much better product — and increase margins.
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