Comparison Guide: What is the difference between PVC and Polypropylene?
PVC, otherwise referred to as Polyvinyl Chloride and ViPrint Polypropylene are both popular sheet plastic materials that are commonly used in printing but what are the key differences?
1. Composition:
PVC is a rigid PVC film calendered to give a high gloss or matt finish on both sides. The formulation is in compliance with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011.
ViPrint Polypropylene consists mainly of polypropylene, polyethylene, antistatic agent, and colourant.
2. Properties:
PVC is an incredibly strong, durable and lightweight high-quality plastic sheet. Renowned for its rigidity, impact resistance and self-extinguishing fire protection properties. PVC sheets also boast excellent chemical resistance, mechanical and tensile strength and stability.
ViPrint is a specialist range of corona-treated polypropylene (PP) sheet with an exceptional finish. It is flexible, tough, durable, thin gauge, strong, and resistant to water and many chemicals. It is halogen-free, ozone-free and phthalate-free.
3. Printing:
With its smooth ink-receptive surface, PVC is suitable for UV digital, screen and litho printing.
ViPrint polypropylene is corona treated on two sides and is also suitable for UV screen printing, UV offset printing and UV digital printing.
4. Recycling
PVC is recyclable and has its own recycling code 3.
ViPrint Polypropylene is a recyclable plastic sheet, the composition of which complies with REACH regulations. Unlike PVC, ViPrint gives off no chlorine gasses if burnt. It is an ecological and 100% recyclable sheet.
3. Applications:
PVC sheets are used for applications such as internal point of sale, packaging, POP displays, printing and due to its UV stability, it is also ideally suited for external signage. The film complies with the guidline 94/62 EC ("Packaging and Packaging waste") and is suitable for direct contact with foodstuffs.
Typical uses of ViPrint Polypropylene include printing, promotional applications, interior signage, point of sale, packaging, advertising items, stationery items, notebook covers and mop trays for free standing display units (FSDU's).
4. Processing:
PVC can be easily machined to close tolerances by drilling, sawing, turning, milling or shearing. It is not suitable for thermoforming but can be printed.
ViPrint can be folded and creased using traditional die-cutting techniques and offers some of the best chemical and moisture resistance in class. It is not suitable for thermoforming.
5. Grades:
PVC sheets are available in clear or white gloss and white matt. PVC is also available in reels.
ViPrint polypropylene sheets are available in a wide range of colours and in fine sand/sand, clear gloss, reflet (anti-reflective) and diagonal line embossed finish. 80% recycled is also available with an MOQ.
When it comes to choosing between PVC and polypropylene for printing the decision will depend on several factors, including the intended use, printing or processing method and desired characteristics. If you need a more rigid and durable plastic sheet with good chemical resistance, PVC might be the better choice. On the other hand, if flexibility and recyclability are more important, then polypropylene could be the preferred option.
For more information on our range of PVC or Polypropylene, please get in touch on 01727 863138 or email sales@stephen-webster.co.uk.
