Longevity

Before producing product from PVC material, PVC is combined with a range of special additive substances. During this combination process, the product is shaped at high temperatures, and transformed into plastic. Required additives are heat stabilizers and lubricants for all PVC materials; if flexible PVC is in question plasticizers are added to these additives. Filling materials, process assistants, impact modifiers and pigments are the additives which may be used. The additives shall determine or affect the mechanical features, brightness, resistance to weather conditions, color, clarity and electrical features of the product.

PVC is resistant to the weather conditions, chemical decomposition, corrosion, shock and abrasion. Therefore, it is preferred by the customers for the outdoor products and various places which long-life is desired. Actually, medium and long-lived applications in building and construction sector constitute 85% of PVC production.

For instance, it is estimated that 75% of PVC pipes shall have a lifetime over 40 years (shall have a potential for reaching 100 years). The studies showed that over 60% of them have a lifetime of over 40 years in respect of other applications such as window profiles and cable sheathing. Wood has a short-life.