Plasticizers organic crystalline chemicals

Chemical Resistance. Plastics are generally superior to metals in resistance to aqueous inorganic environments. Their resistance to organic solvents depends mainly on crystallinity and difference in polarity nonpolar polymers are more resistant to polar organics, while polar polymers are more resistant to nonpolar organics. 

The moderate random chlorination of polyethylene suppresses crystallinity and yields chlorinated polyethylene elastomer (CPE), a rubber-like material that can be crosslinked with organic peroxides. The chlorine (Cl) content is in the range of 36 to 42%, compared to 56.8% for PVC. Such elastomer has good heat and oil resistance. It is also used as a plasticizer for PVC. They provide a very wide range of properties from soft/elastomeric too hard. They have inherent oxygen and ozone resistance, resist plasticizers, volatility, weathering, and compared to PEs have improved resistance to chemical extraction. Products do not fog at high temperatures as do PVCs and can be made flame retardant. 

PVOH (or tradename PVAL) is a crystalline, white powder soluble in water and alcohols. It is characterized by water solubility, low gas permeability barrier, high resistance to organic solvents other than alcohol, and crystallinity when stretch oriented. Crystallinity allows the material to polarize light. A series of hydrolysis levels of the plastic are available that range from room temperature solubility to those not soluble at all. The major applications of the PVOHs are in elastomeric products, adhesives, films, and finishes. Extruded PVOH hoses and tubing are excellent for use subjected to contact with oils and other chemicals. PVOH is used as a sizing in the manufacture of nylon. 

Elastomer compounds can be plasticized by addition of organic compounds. Elastomer compounds are inherently flexible and selection of a base polymer on the basis of molecular weight characteristics, chemical composition, and degree of crystallinity serves as the basis for the properties of the compound from which an elastomer is made. Oils are the most common plasticizer for elastomers. Oils of paraffinic structure or aromatic structure can be used with elastomers in which they are compatible. Paraffin wax would also be included in this category. Other plasticizers include phthalic acid esters and adipic acid esters. Fatty acids can be used as plasticizers but these contribute to an increase in surface tack of elastomer compounds. Examples include stearic and palmitic acid. Plasticizer addition has the added benefit of aiding with incorporation of inorganic materials. 

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