Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)

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Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)

  • How Does PVA Improve Adhesives, Coatings, and Films?
    Sep 11, 2025
    In today's industry, new materials are boosting how well products work. Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is one of these. It's a special kind of synthetic polymer that's becoming very important for making glues, coatings, and films. PVA is great at forming films, sticking things together, dissolving in water, and blocking stuff from getting through. All these things make products better and more competitive.   1. PVA in Adhesives: The Cornerstone of Strong Adhesion PVA stands out because it sticks things together very well. Its molecular structure contains numerous hydroxyl (-OH) groups, which form strong hydrogen bonds with a variety of substrates, resulting in a secure bond.   How PVA Works in Adhesives: Excellent Adhesive Properties: PVA's hydroxyl groups allow it to wet and stick to things like paper, wood, cloth, leather, and certain plastics, creating a strong bond. Excellent Film-Forming Properties: When PVA solution dries, it makes a continuous, smooth, and very flexible film. This film helps the glue stick better. It also spreads stress evenly on the surface, which lowers stress points and makes the bond stronger and last longer. Excellent Cohesive Strength: Hydrogen bonding between PVA molecular chains also imparts high cohesive strength to the adhesive layer, making the bond less susceptible to breakage when subjected to external forces. Modified Polymer Adhesives: PVA is often used as a modifier for polymer adhesives such as polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) emulsions. The addition of PVA significantly increases the viscosity, cohesive strength, wet adhesion, and initial tack of PVAc-based adhesives, while also improving their film-forming properties. Typical Product Applications: Paper and Packaging: PVA is a key adhesive component in the production of products such as paperboard, corrugated boxes, envelopes, and tapes. Its rapid cure and high bond strength meet the demands of high-speed production lines. Wood and Furniture: In the woodworking industry, PVA-based adhesives are favored for their excellent adhesion to wood and relatively low cost. Textiles: PVA can be used as a textile adhesive for non-woven fabric production and garment lamination.   2. PVA in Coatings: Improving Performance and Aesthetics PVA is also widely used in coatings. It not only serves as a film-forming agent but also as an additive, significantly improving the coating's application performance and final film finish. Mechanisms of PVA in Coatings: Enhancing Adhesion: Similar to its role in adhesives, PVA helps the coating adhere better to the substrate surface, reducing flaking and blistering, and improving coating durability. Improving Leveling and Uniformity: PVA's film-forming properties help create a smooth, uniform coating. In paper coatings, PVA acts as a carrier, helping evenly distribute pigments and optical brighteners, enhancing the paper's gloss and printability. Thickening and Stabilization: In water-based coatings, PVA acts as a thickener, adjusting the viscosity and making it easier to apply. It also acts as a protective colloid, stabilizing pigment dispersions and preventing settling. Optical Enhancement: In paper or textile coatings, PVA is an excellent carrier for optical brighteners. It helps the agents distribute more evenly and anchor them to the surface, effectively absorbing UV light and reflecting bluish-white light, significantly improving the product's whiteness and brightness. Typical Product Applications: Paper Coating: CCP Polyvinyl Alcohol BP-05 (CCP BP 05), a partially hydrolyzed form of PVA, exhibits both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, making it ideal as a component in paper coatings. It improves paper's smoothness, printability, ink bleed resistance, and surface strength. BP-05 is recommended for paper coating, indicating its specialized application in this area. Architectural Coatings: In building materials such as cement mortar and gypsum board, PVA can be used as an additive to improve flexibility, bonding strength, and crack resistance. Specialty Coatings: PVA can also be used to create high-performance coatings, such as packaging coatings with excellent barrier properties, or as a surface treatment for leather, making it smoother and easier to print.   3. PVA in Films: A Model of Versatility PVA film is very useful because of its special mix of features. It can be used in many areas, especially for packaging and things that are thrown away after use. Properties of PVA Film: High Barrier: PVA film keeps oxygen and smells out well. This makes it a good option for keeping safe things that are easily changed or have strong smells. Water Solubility and Biodegradability: One of the best things about PVA film is that it can dissolve in water. Also, it can break down under certain conditions, which is good for the environment. This helps meet the rising needs for eco-friendly products. This gives it unique advantages in disposable and water-soluble film applications. Controllable Water Solubility: By controlling the degree of polymerization and hydrolysis of PVA, its dissolution rate and temperature in water can be precisely tailored to meet the needs of various applications. Chemical Stability: PVA exhibits excellent resistance to oils, greases, and most organic solvents. Typical Product Applications: Soluble Packaging: Selvol Polyvinyl Alcohol 205 (Celvol 205), a partially hydrolyzed PVA with low viscosity, sees main application across adhesives, papermaking, and textile sectors. Its low viscosity can make it more useful in some film and coating processes. A common use involves creating packaging films for things like laundry detergent and dishwashing tabs. People can just put the whole package in water, and it will dissolve. This makes things easier and cuts down on plastic waste. Agricultural Film: Controlled-release PVA films can be used to encapsulate pesticides or fertilizers, slowly releasing them under specific conditions to reduce environmental pollution. Medical Applications: PVA's biocompatibility and controllable properties also offer potential applications in the medical field, such as drug delivery vehicles and contact lenses.   4. The Future of PVA Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), with its unique chemical structure and physical properties, plays a vital role in three major areas: adhesives, coatings, and films. From providing strong adhesion, enhancing the decorative and protective properties of coatings, to creating environmentally friendly and convenient packaging solutions, PVA's applications are continuously deepening and expanding.   Website: www.elephchem.com Whatsapp: (+)86 13851435272 E-mail: admin@elephchem.com
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  • Process Simulation and Optimization of Vinyl Acetate Monomer Recovery
    Aug 12, 2025
    Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a fundamental raw material for vinylon production and is also used in the production of adhesives, emulsifiers, and other products. In the PVA production process, solution polymerization is used to ensure a narrow degree of polymerization distribution, low branching, and good crystallinity. The VAM polymerization rate is strictly controlled at approximately 60%. Due to the control of the polymerization rate during the VAM polymerization process, approximately 40% of the Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM) remains unpolymerized and requires separation, recovery, and reuse. Therefore, research on VAM recovery process is a crucial component of the PVA production process. There is a polymer-monomer relationship between Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM). Vinyl acetate monomer is one of the basic raw materials for making ethylene vinyl acetate polymer.   This paper uses the chemical simulation software Aspen Plus to simulate and optimize the VAM recovery process. We studied how process settings in the first, second, and third polymerization towers affect the production unit. We found the best settings to save water used for extraction and lower energy consumption. These parameters provide an important theoretical basis for the design and operation of VAM recovery.   1 Vinyl Acetate Monomer Recovery Process 1.1 Simulation Process This process includes the first, second, and third polymerization towers in the vinyl acetate monomer recovery process. The detailed flow diagram is shown in Figure 1.   1.2 Thermodynamic Model and Module Selection The vinyl acetate monomer recovery unit of the polyvinyl alcohol plant primarily processes a polar system consisting of vinyl acetate, methanol, water, methyl acetate, acetone, and acetaldehyde, with liquid-liquid separation between vinyl acetate and water. The main equipment in the vinyl acetate monomer recovery unit of the polyvinyl alcohol plant was simulated using Aspen Plus software. The RadFrac module was employed for the distillation tower, and the Decanter module for the phase separator.   2 Simulation Results We ran a process simulation on the vinyl acetate monomer recovery unit in the polyvinyl alcohol plant. Table 3 shows a comparison of the simulation results and actual values for the main logistics. As shown in Table 3, the simulation results are in good agreement with the actual values, so this model can be used to further optimize the process parameters and process flow.     3 Process Parameter Optimization 3.1 Determination of the Amount of Stripping Methanol Polymerization Tower 1 takes out vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) from the stream that remains after polymerization. It uses methanol vapor at the bottom for heat. The right amount of methanol is important for how well the tower works. This study looks at how different amounts of methanol affect the mass fraction of PVA at the tower's bottom and the mass fraction of VAM at the top, assuming the feed stays the same and the tower's design is constant.   As shown in Figure 2, when the heat capacity needed for separation in Polymerization Tower 1 is satisfied, raising the stripping methanol amount lowers the PVA mass fraction at the bottom and the VAM mass fraction at the top. The stripping methanol amount has a linear relationship with the PVA mass fraction at the bottom and the VAM mass fraction at the top.   3.2 Optimization of the Feed Position in Polymerization Tower 2 In Polymerization Tower 2, an extractive distillation tower, the locations where the solvent and feed enter greatly affect how well the separation works. This column uses extractive distillation. Based on the physical properties of the extractant and the mixed feed, the extractant should be added from the top of the column. Figure 3 shows how the mixture feed position affects the methanol mass fraction at the top and the reboiler load at the bottom, keeping other simulation settings the same.   3.3 Optimizing the Extraction Water Amount in Polymerization Column 2 In Polymerization Column 2, extractive distillation is used to separate vinyl acetate and methanol azeotrope. By adding water to the top of the column, the azeotrope is disrupted, allowing for the separation of the two substances. The extract water flow rate has a big impact on how well Polymerization Column 2 separates these materials. With consistent simulation settings, I looked at how the amount of extract water affected the methanol mass fraction at the top and the reboiler load at the bottom of the column. The results are shown in Figure 4.   3.4 Optimizing the Reflux Ratio in Polymerization Column 3 In Polymerization Column 3, the reflux ratio is important for separating vinyl acetate from lighter substances like methyl acetate and trace water. This boosts the quality of vinyl acetate obtained from the side stream. We kept the simulation settings constant and studied how the reflux ratio affects both the mass fraction of vinyl acetate from the side stream and the reboiler load. The calculation results are shown in Figure 6. Maintaining the polymerization tower's reflux ratio around 4 helps ensure the vinyl acetate from the side line meets quality standards and keeps the reboiler load low.     4. Conclusion (1) Using AspenPlus software, a suitable thermodynamic model is selected to simulate the entire process of vinyl acetate monomer recovery of the polyvinyl alcohol plant. The simulation results are in good agreement with the actual values and can be used to guide the process design and production optimization of the plant. (2) Based on the establishment of a correct process simulation, the influence of the process parameters of the polymerization tower 1, polymerization tower 2, and polymerization tower 3 on the plant is investigated, and the optimal process parameters are determined. When vinyl acetate meets the needed separation standards, we can save on extraction water and lower energy use.   Website: www.elephchem.com Whatsapp: (+)86 13851435272 E-mail: admin@elephchem.com  
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  • Global consumption structure and Development trends of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
    Dec 02, 2019
    The global consumption structure of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is: polymerization assistants account for about 24%, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) accounts for about 15%, adhesives account for about 14%, textile pulp accounts for about 14%, and paper pulp Materials and coatings account for about 10%, and others 23%. The consumption structure of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in China is: polymerization assistants account for about 38%, fabric slurries account for about 20%, adhesives account for about 12%, vinylon fibers account for about 11%, papermaking slurries and coatings account for about 8% %, architectural coatings account for about 5%, and others 6%. Polymerization aids, fabric sizing and adhesives are the main downstream consumer markets for polyvinyl alcohol.   In the first half of 2023, the supply and demand of China PVA (PVA 100-27 & PVA 1799) products( were in a weak balance, and prices were running at low levels. The advantages of China PVA variety in supporting a stable market share. With the introduction of new technologies, new processes, and new products, the continuous expansion of new application fields, and the gradual replacement of imported products, new development opportunities have been brought to the domestic polyvinyl alcohol and vinylon industry. However, as various companies increase their export efforts and adopt fierce competition at the low end, and with the adjustment of China's industrial structure, rising wages and other costs, and high environmental protection requirements, some downstream industries, such as the labor-intensive textile industry, have relocated to Southeast Asia, making domestic Demand growth momentum has slowed, foreign consumption has increased, and exports have increased. After more than ten years of competitive integration and optimization, the industry is showing a new pattern of optimized production capacity, increased concentration, stable market varieties, slow growth in market demand, high technical barriers, moderate competition, and innovation-driven development, reaching a new balance between supply and demand. Develop into a benign new business format.   With the rapid development of PVA downstream industries such as PVA optical film, PVB film, polymerization additives, soil improvement, paper adhesives, ceramic adhesives, environmental protection, medicine and cosmetics, the demand for special PVA products is very strong, and Anhui The special PVA products of leading enterprises in the industry represented by ElephChem have developed rapidly, and they have increased their research and development efforts on PVA fiber, PVB resin, PVB film, PVA optical film, redispersible rubber powder and other products. Special varieties of PVA and The production technology of downstream new material products is becoming increasingly mature, filling many gaps in the country. New PVA products are gradually being put on the market, and their market share is also constantly increasing. Common varieties have basically achieved import substitution, and the downstream consumption structure of the domestic PVA industry has been further expanded.   Website: www.elephchem.com Whatsapp: (+)86 13851435272 E-mail: admin@elephchem.com
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  • Application of Polyvinyl Alcohol(PVA) & Usage of Polyvinyl Alcohol(PVA)
    Nov 26, 2019
    ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a versatile polymer with a wide range of applications due to its unique combination of properties, including water solubility, film-forming ability, and adhesion. Here are some common applications of ElephChem Polyvinyl Alcohol:   1.Adhesives: ElephChem PVA is widely used in the formulation of water-based adhesives. It provides excellent adhesion to various surfaces, making it suitable for woodworking, paper bonding, and packaging applications.   2.Paper Industry: ElephChem PVA is used as a surface sizing agent in the paper industry. It improves the surface properties of paper, such as smoothness and printability.   3.Textile Industry: In the textile industry, ElephChem PVA is used as a sizing agent to add strength and flexibility to fibers during the weaving process. It is also employed in the production of warp yarns.   4.Emulsion Polymerization: ElephChem PVA is used in emulsion polymerization processes to stabilize and control the particle size of latex polymers. It serves as a protective colloid in the synthesis of latex dispersions.   5.Packaging Films: ElephChem PVA is utilized in the production of water-soluble packaging films. These films are environmentally friendly and find applications in single-dose packaging for detergents, agrochemicals, and other products.   6.Textile Sizing: ElephChem PVA is used as a sizing agent for warp yarns in the textile industry. It imparts strength and lubrication during the weaving process.   7.Construction Industry: ElephChem PVA is incorporated into cement-based formulations as a cement modifier. It enhances the adhesion and workability of cementitious materials, such as mortar and concrete.   8.Release Agents:  ElephChem PVA is used as a release agent in the production of molded objects, such as rubber and plastic components. It prevents adhesion of the molded product to the mold surface.   9.Medical Applications: ElephChem PVA is used in the medical field for applications such as the production of hydrogel-based wound dressings and controlled drug delivery systems.   10.Photographic Films: ElephChem PVA is used as a protective colloid in the manufacturing of photographic emulsions. It contributes to the stability and dispersibility of silver halide crystals.   11.Coatings and Paints: ElephChem PVA is employed as a binder in water-based coatings and paints. It enhances film formation, adhesion, and flexibility.   12.Water-Soluble Films: ElephChem PVA is used to produce water-soluble films for various applications, including packaging of detergents, dyes, and agrochemicals. These films dissolve in water, leaving no residue.   These applications showcase the versatility of polyvinyl alcohol across diverse industries. The specific grade and characteristics of ElephChem PVA can be tailored to meet the requirements of each application, making it a valuable polymer in the manufacturing sector.
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  • Preparation of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
    Nov 20, 2019
    ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic polymer that is commonly prepared through the hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate. The process involves converting polyvinyl acetate, which is a resin, into ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol by replacing the acetate groups with hydroxyl groups. Here is a simplified overview of the preparation of polyvinyl alcohol:   Steps in the Preparation of Polyvinyl Alcohol: 1.Hydrolysis of Polyvinyl Acetate: ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA,PVA 100-27S & PVA 1799S) is typically synthesized through the hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate, a polymer derived from vinyl acetate monomers. The hydrolysis reaction involves treating polyvinyl acetate with an aqueous solution of a strong base, usually sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or another alkali. [CH2CHOOCCH3]n+NaOH→[CH2CHOHCH3]n+NaOC(O)CH3 In this reaction, the acetate groups (-OC(O)CH3) are replaced by hydroxyl groups (-CHOH-) in the polymeric chain.   2.Neutralization and Washing: After hydrolysis, the resulting polyvinyl alcohol is often neutralized to remove any excess alkali. The polymer is then washed to remove by-products and impurities, ensuring the purity of ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol.   3. Drying: The purified ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol is usually dried to remove residual water and obtain the final polymer in a solid form.   Additional Considerations: Degree of Hydrolysis: The extent of hydrolysis determines the degree of alcoholysis in the ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol. A higher degree of hydrolysis means more acetate groups are replaced by hydroxyl groups, resulting in a higher concentration of hydroxyl groups along the polymer chain. Polymerization Method: The initial polyvinyl acetate polymer is often prepared through free radical polymerization of vinyl acetate monomers. This polymerization process results in a polyvinyl acetate resin, which is then subjected to hydrolysis. Quality Control: The quality of the ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol is crucial for its intended applications. Manufacturers employ various analytical techniques to monitor and control the degree of hydrolysis, molecular weight, and other properties of the final product.   It's important to note that the detailed process may vary depending on the specific manufacturing conditions and desired properties of the ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol. ElephChem may use different catalysts, concentrations, and reaction conditions to achieve the desired characteristics for various applications, such as adhesives, coatings, films, and textiles.
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  • Polyvinyl Alcohol(PVA) Storage Method
    Nov 16, 2019
    ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a water-soluble synthetic polymer with a wide range of applications, including as a component in adhesives, coatings, and as a film-forming agent. Proper storage of polyvinyl alcohol is important to maintain its quality and usability. Here are some general guidelines for the storage of ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA):1.Temperature and Humidity:Store polyvinyl alcohol in a cool, dry place. Exposure to high temperatures and humidity can lead to changes in the physical properties of the material, such as increased moisture absorption.Avoid storage in areas prone to temperature fluctuations. 2.Sealed Containers:Keep polyvinyl alcohol in sealed containers to prevent moisture absorption. PVA is water-soluble, and exposure to moisture can affect its performance.Use airtight containers or bags to protect the material from environmental conditions.   3.Protection from Light:Store ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) away from direct sunlight and other sources of UV light. Prolonged exposure to light can cause degradation of the polymer. 4.Avoid Contamination:Keep ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) away from contaminants such as dust, dirt, and chemicals that may affect its properties.Use clean utensils and tools when handling and transferring PVA to prevent contamination.   5. Handling Precautions:Follow proper handling procedures to avoid introducing impurities during the storage and use of polyvinyl alcohol.Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, when handling the material.   6.First In, First Out (FIFO):Follow a FIFO system to ensure that older batches of ElephChem Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) are used first. This helps prevent the material from sitting in storage for extended periods, reducing the risk of degradation.   7.Check for Changes:Periodically inspect stored ElephChem polyvinyl alcohol for any signs of discoloration, clumping, or changes in texture. If any abnormalities are observed, it's essential to investigate the cause and assess the material's suitability for use. Periodically inspect ElephChem PVA(PVA 100-10F & PVA 10-99F)for any signs of discoloration, clumping, or changes in texture.    If any abnormalities are observed, it's essential to investigate the cause and assess the material's suitability for use.Always refer to the specific manufacturer-ElephChem's guidelines and recommendations for the storage of the particular grade or type of polyvinyl alcohol you are using. Different formulations may have varying storage requirements. Proper storage practices contribute to the longevity and effectiveness of polyvinyl alcohol in various applications.  
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  • Overview of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)
    Nov 02, 2019
    Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a water-soluble high polymer produced by the polymerization and hydrolysis of vinyl acetate (VAC). It exhibits excellent chemical stability and possesses properties such as good insulation, film-forming ability, gas barrier performance, water solubility, adhesion, interfacial chemistry, solvent resistance, and thermal stability.   ElephChem PVA products can be classified based on different degrees of polymerization: low degree of polymerization (DP < 1000), medium degree of polymerization (1000 < DP < 2000), and high degree of polymerization (DP > 2000).   ElephChem PVA products can also be categorized according to different degrees of hydrolysis: low hydrolysis (< 80) ,for example PVA 2088, partial hydrolysis (79-89),such as PVA 2488, PVA 0588, medium hydrolysis (91-98), and complete hydrolysis (98-99).
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  • China origin Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) Capacity
    Oct 14, 2019
    China is a major global producer of PVA (Polyvinyl alcohol). Since 1965, when Beijing Oriental Petrochemical Co., Ltd. (formerly Beijing Organic Chemical Factory) introduced technology from Japan and established the first set of calcium carbide acetylene method in China (changed to petroleum ethylene method in 1995), the production of PVA in China has steadily developed. According to statistics, in 2015, China's Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) production was approximately 700,000 tons, increasing to 802,000 tons in 2022, with a compound annual growth rate of 1.96% during this period. In terms of demand, the apparent consumption of PVA( PVA 098-03 & PVA 0399) in China in 2022 was 639,600 tons, representing a year-on-year growth of 2.16%.
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