Polyvinyl Alcohol (17-88) - China

Brief Overview

Polyvinyl alcohols, also known as Polyethanol or PVA, are polymers from its monomer vinyl alcohol. Polyvinyl alcohol is physically odorless and tasteless, translucent, non- toxic, white or cream colored granular powder. The specific functional and physical characteristics of polyvinyl alcohol will depend on the degree of hydrolysis and the degree of polymerization. Because of that, polyvinyl alcohol is classified into two classes namely: partially hydrolyzed and fully hydrolyzed. Partially hydrolyzed PVA is usually applied in the food industry. Certain grades of PVA also exhibit biodegradability, adding to its appeal as a more environmentally conscious material.

Manufacturing Process

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is mainly produced in two steps: first, vinyl acetate is polymerized into polyvinyl acetate (PVAc). Then, PVAc undergoes hydrolysis in an alcohol solution with an alkaline catalyst to replace acetate groups with hydroxyl groups, forming PVA. The degree of this replacement dictates PVA's final properties, like water solubility. Finally, the resulting PVA is separated, purified, and dried.

Paper Industry

PVA acts as a surface treatment to make paper stronger, smoother for printing, and resistant to things like oil. It also helps bind the paper fibers together for better durability and is used in specialty papers for better ink handling.

Textile Industry

PVA is used to coat threads before they are woven into fabric, making them stronger and less likely to break. It also improves the feel and finish of fabrics and acts as a binder in non-woven materials, as well as playing a role in dyeing and printing processes.

Packaging Industry

PVA is formed into water-soluble films used for convenient packaging like laundry detergent pods and agricultural chemicals. It can also create barriers against oxygen and smells in food packaging to keep products fresh.

Chemical Industry

It is used as a polymer emulsifying agent, dispersing agent and used to produce PVA formal, PVA acetal, PVA butyra.

Construction

It is used as an addictive to cement and mortar to increase coating adaptability and prevent concrete cloth from
chapping.

Cosmetics Industry

PVA helps create films, bind ingredients, thicken liquids, and mix substances in various personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and facial masks.

Agriculture Industry

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is used as a soil improving agent and pesticide reinforcing agent.

Food Industry

In food manufacturing, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is used as a food additive used as a film coating agent for food supplements.