Softening of Rigid PVC by Aqueous Solutions of Organic Solvents
Abstract
This research examined softening of rigid PVC by aqueous solutions of organic solvents known to be good PVC swelling agents. Significant changes in the hardness readings of rigid PVC exposed to aqueous solutions of methylene chloride (a good PVC swelling agent) occurred at thermodynamic activities as low as 0.1, which is much lower than has been reported or predicted. Rigid PVC became rubbery after exposure to 0.6-activity solutions of methylene chloride. Whether a similar phenomenon occurs with TCE, which is not as good a PVC swelling agent, is not clear from these preliminary studies. This study also looked at the effect of a mixture of several organic solvents dissolved in an aqueous solution. A solution that contained three good PVC swelling agents, each at an activity of 0.3, rapidly softened PVC (within 2 days). This indicates that there is some type of interactive or cumulative effect associated with mixtures of organic solutes, with each solute at an activity of 0.3 or higher. A study was also conducted to determine if aqueous solutions of a good PVC swelling agent that is also totally miscible in water (acetone) can soften PVC. After 1 week a concentration of 50% acetone softened PVC, while a 25% solution did not. Organic solvents, PVC, Polyvinylchloride, Solvents.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA286374
Entities
People
- Louise V. Parker
- Thomas A. Ranney
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory