Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic, water-soluble polymer made by the hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate. It is known for excellent film-forming, emulsifying, and adhesive properties. PVA is widely used across industries for applications requiring biodegradable, non-toxic, and flexible materials. It offers good chemical resistance, mechanical strength, and compatibility with other polymers and additives.
Primary Uses
Adhesives & Coatings
Used in paper, textile, and wood adhesives.
Forms clear, flexible films and coatings with excellent adhesion.
Applied in water-based paints and surface coatings for enhanced durability.
Textile Industry
Used as a sizing agent to strengthen yarns during weaving.
Improves fabric finish and reduces breakage.
Serves as a binder in non-woven fabrics and textile finishing.
Packaging Films
Produces biodegradable, water-soluble films used in packaging detergents, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
Used in pouches and bags that dissolve in water.
Paper Industry
Acts as a coating agent and binder in paper production to improve printability and strength.
Enhances resistance to oil, grease, and water.
Pharmaceuticals & Medical Applications
Used in controlled drug delivery systems and tablet coatings.
Ingredient in eye drops and contact lens solutions.
Used in wound dressings and hydrogels.
Secondary Uses
Cosmetics
Used as a film former and thickener in lotions and creams.
Provides texture and stability in personal care products.
3D Printing
Used as a water-soluble support material for complex 3D prints.
Construction
Used as a binder and additive in cement and mortar to improve workability and strength.
Agriculture
Applied as a coating agent for seeds and agrochemical formulations.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Poly(1-hydroxyethylene)
Common/Trade Name: Polyvinyl Alcohol, PVA
CAS Number: 9002-89-5
HS Code: 3905.30.00 (Polymers of vinyl alcohol)
Synonyms: PVOH, Polyvinyl alcohol resin
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: White powder or granules
Color: White
Odor: Odorless
Solubility: Soluble in water (degree depends on hydrolysis and polymerization)
Melting Point: ~200 °C (decomposes)
Density: 1.19–1.31 g/cm³
Degree of Hydrolysis: Typically 80–99%
Viscosity: Variable depending on molecular weight and solution concentration
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally regarded as safe
Irritation Potential: May cause mild skin or eye irritation in dust form
Flammability: Combustible in powder form
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
Container Type: Supplied in sealed bags or drums
Shelf Life: Typically 2 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation; use dust mask and protective equipment when handling powder
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with:
FDA regulations for food contact materials (where applicable)
REACH and other international chemical safety standards
USP/NF for pharmaceutical grades
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental risk
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as hazardous
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, and safety goggles recommended during powder handling
Handling Guidelines: Use local exhaust ventilation to minimize dust; avoid inhalation and prolonged skin contact
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulty occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if discomfort occurs
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Combustible; powder form can form explosive dust clouds
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚
Special Precautions: Avoid dust accumulation; use appropriate respiratory protection
Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic fumes