What is the difference between PVC rigid film and PVDC rigid film?

PVC rigid films and PVDC rigid films are two common materials in the field of pharmaceutical packaging. Although they have similar names, they have significant differences in composition, performance and application scenarios. Understanding their differences will help you choose more suitable pharmaceutical packaging materials according to specific needs. Here are the differences between the two:

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1.Material composition

PVC rigid film: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) rigid film is a packaging material produced by adding certain processing aids to polyvinyl chloride resin through extrusion, calendering and other processing methods. Its chemical structure is a direct connection of vinyl chloride monomer segments.

PVDC rigid film: PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride) rigid film is based on PVC rigid film and coated with a layer of PVDC coating. The chemical structure of PVDC has a carbon-carbon double bond inserted into the vinyl chloride monomer chain segment, forming a different chemical structure.

2. Performance characteristics:

PerformancePVC rigid filmPVDC rigid film
Barrier performanceBarrier performance is average, and the barrier performance to water vapor and oxygen is weakBarrier performance is excellent, especially the barrier performance to water vapor, oxygen and odor
Mechanical propertiesGood mechanical strength and durabilityHigh strength, but slightly brittle
Thermoforming performanceExcellent processing performance, easy to thermoformThermoforming performance is slightly worse than PVC
TransparencyHigh transparency, good visual effectTranslucent or transparent, depending on the coating thickness
Chemical stabilityHigh chemical stability, but sensitive to certain solventsBetter chemical stability and better corrosion resistance
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3.Application fields:

PVC rigid film: PVC rigid film is widely used in building materials pipes, wires and cables and other fields. It is also used in the packaging of medicines and food, especially as the skeleton structure of blister packaging.

PVDC rigid film: PVDC rigid film is mainly used in the field of high-barrier packaging, such as the packaging of medicines, food, cosmetics and other products. It is particularly suitable for products that need to maintain freshness for a long time or prevent oxidation.

4. Price and cost:

PVC rigid film: Since the raw materials and production process of PVC rigid film are relatively simple, its price is relatively low.

PVDC rigid film: The price of PVDC rigid film is relatively high, mainly due to its high barrier performance and complex production process. The price of PVDC is also related to the composition and thickness of the coating. The larger the coating volume, the higher the price.

5. Environmental protection:

PVC rigid film: Hazardous substances may be produced during processing and disposal, so attention must be paid to environmental pollution issues. Therefore, recycling is difficult and environmental protection pressure is high.

PVDC rigid film: Although its barrier properties are superior, its production and processing also have certain environmental burdens. Due to the chlorine content, harmful gases may be released during incineration.

To sum up, PVC rigid films are known for their transparency and economy and are suitable for ordinary packaging needs, while PVDC rigid films are characterized by excellent barrier properties and are suitable for high-demand protective packaging. In practical applications, according to the storage conditions and packaging requirements of the product, the two can be selected individually or combined (PVC/PVDC composite rigid film) to give full play to their respective advantages and achieve the best packaging effect.