When choosing a roofing material, it is important to understand the difference between PVC and UPVC. The two materials have different properties, so there are also big differences in performance and lifespan. This article will take you to an in-depth look at the differences between PVC and UPVC to help you make an informed decision during your construction or roof renovation project.
- Composition and structure:
UPVC: stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, which is composed of polyvinyl chloride resin and basically no plasticizer is added during the production process. Its molecular chain structure is very tight, which makes the material hard and durable.
PVC: It is polyvinyl chloride, and plasticizers are added during production. The molecular chain structure is relatively loose, so the material is soft and easy to deform.
- Performance characteristics:
1. Mechanical properties:
UPVC tiles have higher hardness and strength, can withstand greater pressure and impact, and are not easy to deform and break; PVC tiles are relatively soft, and have weak impact and pressure resistance.
2. Temperature resistance:
UPVC tiles have a wide temperature resistance range and can be used normally in a temperature range of - 5℃-70℃; PVC tiles have a relatively narrow temperature resistance range, and when the temperature is too high, the material will soften and deform.
3. Weather resistance:
UPVC tiles do not add plasticizers, have better weather resistance, and are not easy to age and deteriorate in sunlight and high temperature environments; PVC tiles are prone to aging, discoloration, brittleness, etc. in long-term outdoor environments.
4. Fire resistance:
The oxygen index of UPVC is generally above 27, and it has good flame retardant properties; PVC tiles usually also have a certain degree of fire resistance and are flame-retardant materials, but may release toxic gases at high temperatures.
5. Corrosion resistance:
Both have a certain degree of corrosion resistance. UPVC has a purer chemical composition and is more resistant to corrosion by acids, alkalis and other chemical substances. It is suitable for corrosive environments such as chemical industries. The corrosion resistance of PVC tiles is relatively weak.
- Environmental protection:
UPVC: No harmful substances are released during production and use, which has less impact on the environment and is more convenient to recycle.
PVC: Some of the plasticizers and stabilizers used in the production process may contain harmful substances, and improper disposal after disposal will cause pollution to the environment.
UPVC: The production process is relatively complex, the quality of raw materials is high, and the price is usually higher than PVC tiles
PVC: The production process is relatively simple, the cost of raw materials is low, and the price is relatively cheap
UPVC: Suitable for places with high requirements for roof material strength, weather resistance and corrosion resistance, such as industrial plants, warehouses, smelters, printing and dyeing plants and other corrosive environment building roofs.
PVC: Suitable for general civil buildings, carports, farmers' markets and other places that do not have particularly high requirements for roof material performance and focus on cost-effectiveness.
Whether you choose PVC or UPVC, each material has unique advantages and can be selected according to your specific situation.