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vinyl polymer

chemical compound
Also known as: polyvinyl compound, vinyl plastic

Quick Summary

Vinyl compounds are organic chemical compounds that contain the vinyl group (CH₂=CH-). These compounds are crucial for producing a wide range of plastics and materials, including plastic film, sheeting, upholstery, floor tile, and fibers for fabric.1

The key characteristic of vinyl compounds is their ability to undergo polymerization, a process where individual molecules join end-to-end to form long chains called polymers. This can happen with a single type of vinyl compound, creating a polyvinyl compound like polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or with two different compounds, forming a copolymer such as Vinylite. This process of joining vinyl compounds is known as vinyl-type polymerization.12

Common examples of polymers derived from vinyl compounds include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), used in pipes and siding, and polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), known for its low permeability to water vapor and gases, making it ideal for food packaging.34

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