1. PVC and its use
1.1. What is it?
Polyvinyl chloride, better known by its acronym PVC, is a plastic produced through the polymerization of vinyl chloride, i.e. the transformation of simple, light particles (monomers) into larger, compound particles (polymers). It takes the form of a white powder and its composition is made up of 57% chlorine, derived from sodium chloride, and 43% ethylene, derived from petroleum.
1.2 Why is it so widely used?
PVC is a thermoplastic that is easily molded when subjected to heat and returns to its solid state after cooling. This characteristic means that it is used in countless products, from pipes to toys, as well as in the pharmaceutical, construction and packaging industries. In the field of digital printing it is used in applications such as muppies, shop windows, advertising displays, decorative films, information boards and others.
2. What changes with PVC Free
2.1 Greener production and decomposition
The process that makes PVC flexible and elastic, both to handle and to apply, involves the use of additives (plasticizers) and its decomposition releases large quantities of hydrogen chloride, all of which are harmful to the environment. PVC Free films, on the other hand, do not involve plasticizers in their production and have a high degree of recyclability.
2.2 End of plasticizer migration
The migration of plasticizers from the PVC film to the surface interferes with ink adhesion during printing, leading, for example, to the appearance of faded colors and images with poor sharpness. Over time, there is a tendency for other problems to appear, such as stains, discoloration and yellowing, compromising the aesthetics and durability of the applications. Laminating can also be affected in terms of adhesion and peeling.
PVC Free films, being free of plasticizers, eliminate all these migration issues as well as allowing printing on a wider variety of materials.
3. What won’t change with PVC Free
3.1 Performance and durability
The fear that PVC Free films are inferior in quality to PVC in Sign Graphics applications, particularly in visual communication, is unfounded. In the initial phase, the PVC Free offer for printing and laminating was small and had limitations, but the formulas for these sustainable films have evolved significantly. Today, the mechanical properties of PVC Free films match most PVC solutions and, in some cases, surpass them.
3.2 Competitiveness
The switch to PVC Free films is often compromised by the notion that more environmentally friendly products are far more expensive. This is true of some brands on the market, but there are others with sustainable ranges that allow companies to present their customers with an appealing ecological portfolio at competitive prices.
4. Benefits of PVC Free
4.1. Environment
PVC Free films contribute to reducing the carbon footprint since their production and disposal involve less release of toxins. Opting for more sustainable alternatives means less pollution and less negative impact on the biosphere.
4.2 Health
Phthalates, harmful organic compounds found in PVC products, do not exist in PVC Free solutions. This makes them safer for both workers in the production process and end users.
4.3. Companies
Companies that present ecological alternatives increase their brand reputation by establishing themselves in the market as drivers of change. Not only because of their good internal environmental practices, but also because they encourage and promote sustainability among customers.
We share some tips for good environmental practices in companies:
1. Choose suppliers certified for sustainability
2. Use sustainable and safe materials
3. Reduce waste during production
4. Implement energy-saving measures
5. Encourage recycling and upcycling
6. Communicate through greener means
5. The importance of change
Along the sustainability journey, consumers have become more conscientious and more and more companies are opting for ecological alternatives to PVC. In the visual communication market, this translates into applications with PVC Free films that deliver high quality results and affordable financial values.
It is now possible to meet customer expectations with products that make every print and lamination a positive contribution to safeguarding the future. The same future that decal® has been committed to with its “Think Green” signature since 2009, which serves as a motto for the development of products that combine ecology, efficiency and innovation.
Since then, we have created solutions for Sign Graphics that contribute to a significant reduction in the carbon footprint, with the PVC Free range being the best example of this work. A set of exclusive films developed for visual communication and decoration with the advantages of PVC films and international certification for sustainability, quality and safety.
Find out more about our PVC Free range for printing and lamination.
FAQs
1. What is PVC?
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, a type of thermoplastic used in a wide variety of products due to its easy malleability through heat.
2. Why are PVC Free films better for the environment?
The production and disposal of PVC Free films emits fewer harmful agents into the environment, reducing the carbon footprint.
3. Is the quality of PVC Free films inferior?
No, PVC Free films have evolved a lot and now guarantee high print quality, performance and durability.
4. Are there any challenges in the transition to PVC Free films?
There are challenges in the market, since many brands have high prices and low availability. In the case of decal® this is not an issue.
