PVC-U (Rigid PVC) vs PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer): Both low-cost plastics — PVC-U stiffer and flame-resistant, PP-H lighter and chemically superior
PVC-U (Rigid PVC) vs PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
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).
PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer)
Polypropylene Homopolymer — the lightest common engineering plastic (0.905 g/cm³). Excellent chemical resistance (esp. to acids and bases), good fatigue resistance (integral living hinges), and low moisture absorption. Becomes brittle below 0°C. Used for chemical tanks, HVAC ducts, pump housings, food containers, automotive battery cases, and medical lab equipment.
| PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 10350 | ISO 10350 |
Chemical composition (wt%) — Pro
| Element | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Polymer (Polyvinyl Chloride) | 95–99.9% | — | — |
| Base Polymer (Polypropylene) | — | 99.5–99.9% | — |
Mechanical properties — Pro
| Property | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 48–55 | 30–36 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | 48–55 | 30–36 | MPa |
| Elongation | 30–50 | 70–200 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Continuous Use Temp | |||
| hardness_shore_d | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Melting Point |
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PVC-U has higher stiffness (E-Mod 3.0 vs 1.5 GPa), is self-extinguishing (LOI 45%), and costs less. PP-H is lighter (0.91 vs 1.40 g/cm³), withstands higher temps (100 vs 60°C), and resists more chemicals (esp. acids). Choose PVC-U for pipes/profiles at room temp; PP-H for chemical tanks and higher temp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVC-U (Rigid PVC) the same as PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer)?
PVC-U (Rigid PVC) and PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer) have a 40% composition overlap. Both low-cost plastics — PVC-U stiffer and flame-resistant, PP-H lighter and chemically superior
Can I replace PVC-U (Rigid PVC) with PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (40% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PVC-U (Rigid PVC) and PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PVC-U (Rigid PVC) is a Polymers grade, while PP-H (Polypropylene Homopolymer) 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.