Polyvinyl alcohol – a modern polymer for industry, medicine and ecology

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic, water-soluble polymer with exceptional versatility. Its physicochemical properties – including its ability to form films, high viscosity, biocompatibility and non-toxicity – make it used in dozens of industries: from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to construction and eco-friendly production of water-soluble packaging.

Vichemic – Polyvinyl alcohol offers a raw material with high purity, excellent stability and a wide range of applications.

Physical and chemical properties of PVA

• Physical form: white powder or granules
• Solubility: very soluble in water (especially hot water), insoluble in most organic solvents
• Properties: odorless, non-toxic, biodegradable
• Degree of hydrolysis: a key parameter that determines application (partially or fully hydrolyzed)

Applications of polyvinyl alcohol

1. cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry

In cosmetics, PVA acts as an emulsion stabilizer and film-forming thickener. It is present in peel-off masks, gels and skin care creams. Thanks to its non-toxicity and hypoallergenicity, it is also used in the production of contact lenses, hydrogel dressings and carriers of active substances in dermatological drugs.

2. Eco-friendly water-soluble packaging

PVA solutions are used to create biodegradable films that are used to make laundry and dishwashing capsules, among other products. They are environmentally safe and completely dissolve in water without generating microplastics.

3. 3D printing – structural support

In FDM technology, PVA is used as a support material. It creates structures to support the details of a 3D model, which can be easily removed later by dissolving in water – making it easier to create complex shapes and geometries.

4. Textile and paper industry

As an auxiliary agent in fabrics and paper, PVA improves print quality, imparts elasticity, increases moisture resistance and stabilizes colors and textures. In the textile industry it is used, among other things, as a warp for synthetic spinning.

5. Adhesives, paints and protective coatings

Polyvinyl alcohol is the main ingredient in popular school and office adhesives. It is also used in water-based paints as an emulsifier, dispersing agent and pigment carrier. Due to its resistance to oils and grease, it is also used in industrial coatings.

6. Construction and ceramics

Adding PVA to cement and plaster mortars increases their adhesion, flexibility and resistance to cracking. In ceramics, it acts as a binding agent for fine particles in the firing process, which improves the quality of the finished product.

Environmental benefits and safety

• Biodegradable and non-toxic – safe for the aquatic environment
• Does not emit harmful substances during decomposition
• Does not cause skin irritation (according to dermatological standards)

Interesting facts about PVA

• Used in the production of specialized extended-release tablets of active substances
• In Japan, used to create biodegradable planting rice bags
• It is the base for the production of so-called “artificial skin” in biotechnology laboratories

Summary

Polyvinyl alcohol is an innovative, forward-looking raw material that meets the needs of modern industry and ecology thanks to its versatility. Its high water solubility, biosafety and potential for use in modern technologies make it one of the most promising polymers of the 21st century.

Find out more about the product here: https://vichemic.pl/oferta/chemia-gospodarcza/alkohol-poliwinylowy/