Polyvinyl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🔧
polyvinyl
[ˌpɒliˈvaɪnɪl ]
Definition
material science
Polyvinyl is a synthetic polymer made from the polymerization of vinyl chloride. It is widely used in a variety of applications including construction materials, packaging, and automotive parts due to its durability and flexibility.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The pipes are made of polyvinyl chloride.
- She used polyvinyl materials for her craft project.
- Polyvinyl is commonly used in flooring.
- The insulation was made from polyvinyl.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Industry Applications
- Used widely in the construction industry for pipes, flooring, and siding due to its durability and resistance to moisture.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a variation, is one of the most produced synthetic plastics in the world.
Environmental Concerns
- The production and disposal of polyvinyl can release harmful chemicals, leading to environmental pollution.
- Efforts are ongoing to develop more sustainable versions of this material to reduce its environmental impact.
Cultural Impact
- Polyvinyl records revolutionized the music industry, allowing for higher quality audio and mass distribution of music.
- Fashion items made from polyvinyl, like faux leather, became popular in the 1960s, intersecting with the rise of pop culture.
Health and Safety
- Concerns over the potential toxins released during burning or degrading have led to discussions about safer alternatives.
- Innovation in bioplastics aims to mitigate health risks associated with traditional polyvinyl products.
Origin of 'polyvinyl'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from 'poly,' meaning many, and 'vinyl,' which refers to vinyl compounds derived from ethylene.
- Vinyl has been in use since the 19th century, but it became popular as a synthetic plastic in the mid-20th century.
The term 'polyvinyl' is derived from the combination of 'poly', meaning many, and 'vinyl', which refers to the vinyl group in chemistry. Vinyl chloride was first produced in the 19th century, but it was not until the 1920s that polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was discovered for commercial use. This synthetic plastic became popular due to its versatility, resistance to weathering, and chemical stability. Over the decades, advancements in manufacturing processes have expanded the applications of polyvinyl materials significantly, making it a staple in various industries. Today, PVC is one of the most widely produced synthetic plastic polymers, with extensive use in construction, healthcare, and consumer goods.