Polyvinylidene chloride
Description
A thermoplastic polymer that is commonly called saran. Polyvinylidene chloride forms films that are impermeable to vapors, moisture, and oxygen. It is most often used as a barrier film for packaging. In an eco-friendly step, the brand name 'Saran Wrap' product changed formulations in 2004 to polyethylene film.
See also saran film.
Synonyms and Related Terms
poly(vinylidene chloride); PVDC; poli(cloruro de vinilideno) (Esp.); chlorure de polyvinylidène (Fr.); polivinilidene cloruro (It.); cloreto de polivinilideno (Port.)
Examples: saran; Cryovac
Other Properties
Burns with green flame producing pungent odor and evolving HCl.
Turns yellow or brown when exposed to alkalis.
| Melting Point | 185-200 |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.86-1.88 |
Hazards and Safety
Combustible but self-extinguishing. May release acids when heated.
Comparisons
Physical Properties for Selected Thermoplastic Resins
General Characteristics of Polymers
Sources Checked for Data in Record
- Theodore J. Reinhart, 'Glossary of Terms', Engineered Plastics, ASM International, 1988
- Richard S. Lewis, Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, 10th ed., 1993
- Art and Architecture Thesaurus Online, http://www.getty.edu/research/tools/vocabulary/aat/, J. Paul Getty Trust, Los Angeles, 2000