PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) vs PVC-U (Rigid PVC): 0% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) vs PVC-U (Rigid PVC)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PVC-P (Plasticized PVC)
Flexible (plasticized) PVC — PVC compounded with 20–50% plasticizer (typically DEHP, DINP or DOTP) to achieve rubber-like flexibility. Very different properties from rigid PVC-U. Excellent electrical insulation, chemical resistance, flame retardancy (self-extinguishing) and weatherability. Trade names: Vestolit P (Orbia), Geon (Polyone). Used for cable insulation and sheathing, medical tubing, automotive interior trim, inflatable products, floor coverings, hoses and sealing profiles. Continuous use -30°C to +70°C.
PVC-U (Rigid PVC)
Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride — the second-most produced plastic globally. Hard, rigid, self-extinguishing (LOI 45%), excellent chemical resistance to acids/bases/salts, and very low cost. Key limitation: max service temp only 60°C. Developed in 1930s Germany. Used for water/sewage pipes, window profiles, electrical conduit, cladding, and chemical tanks/fittings. NOT the flexible PVC used in cables — that is PVC-P (plasticized).
| PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 2898 | ISO 10350 |
Chemical composition (wt%) — Pro
| Element | PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Polymer (Polyvinyl Chloride) | 60–90% | 95–99.9% | No overlap |
| Plasticizer (DOP/DINP/DEHP type) | 10–40% | — | — |
Mechanical properties — Pro
| Property | PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 10–25 | — | MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 200–400 | — | % |
| Shore Hardness A | 55–90 | — | Shore A |
| Density | |||
| Continuous Use Temp | |||
| Oxygen Index (LOI) | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Tensile Strength | |||
| Yield Strength | |||
| Elongation | |||
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Continuous Use Temp | |||
| hardness_shore_d | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) |
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PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) and PVC-U (Rigid PVC) have significantly different compositions (0% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) the same as PVC-U (Rigid PVC)?
PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) and PVC-U (Rigid PVC) have a 0% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) with PVC-U (Rigid PVC)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (0% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) and PVC-U (Rigid PVC)?
The main differences are in the following elements: Base Polymer (Polyvinyl Chloride). PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) is a Polymers grade, while PVC-U (Rigid PVC) is a Polymers grade.
Related Comparisons
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.