The PVC value chain is constantly engaged in the research and development of new formulations which can provide more efficient, safer, and circular cables.
INCREASED FIRE PERFORMANCE
PVC cables continue to benefit from cutting-edge innovations aimed at improving fire safety. By incorporating advanced fire-retardant additives, manufacturers enhance the material's resistance to ignition and flame spread. Research into optimal combinations of plasticisers, additives, and innovative PVC resins has further advanced fire performance, contributing to safer cable formulations.
One key innovation involves replacing Medium-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (MCCPs) with bio-based chlorinated esters developed by PVC4Cables Partner Altair Chemical. These esters increase the chlorine content in PVC formulations, significantly boosting flame retardancy and cable performance in tests such as the EN 50399 (CPR) burning test.
They also offer improved environmental performance, with lower migration rates, reduced smoke emissions, and better thermal stability compared to traditional MCCPs. Fully REACH-compliant, these advancements align with regulatory requirements while advancing the development of safer, more sustainable PVC formulations. Discover more in the video and proceedings from the 2024 PVC4Cables Conference.
LEVERAGING STUDENT RESEARCH
PVC4Cables and its partners actively collaborate with universities to leverage student research and insights. For instance, a recent study compared smoke acidity values in PVC formulations under EN 60754-1 and EN 60754-2 standards, providing valuable data to guide improvements in cable performance.
These innovations highlight the commitment of PVC4Cables and its partners to driving sustainable progress in fire safety and environmental compatibility within the PVC cable value chain.
BIO-BASED SOLUTIONS
Non-fossil-based PVC resin and additives represent an emerging area of interest, driven by the growing demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. These resins and additives can potentially lead to reduced carbon footprint, improved mechanical properties, enhanced thermal stability, better fire performance and cost savings.
Discover a concrete example of the European PVC cable value chain’s research into bio-based solutions in the video below:
THE POTENTIAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGIES
Nanotechnologies represent an interesting perspective for the development and use of efficient functional additives in polymers:
IMPROVED MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
Nanoparticles can increase the tensile strength of PVC, making the cables more robust. Certain nano-additives can enhance the flexibility of PVC without compromising its strength.
IMPROVED PROCESSING CONDITIONS
Nano-additives can change the melt flow properties of PVC, widening the processing conditions and making manufacturing more efficient. They can also react with the polymer during extrusion, preventing degradation and extending the cable's lifespan. Further, nanoparticles can enhance and tune the efficacy of other additives, reducing the amount needed for desired effects like reinforcement or thermal stabilization.
ENHANCED THERMAL STABILITY AND CONTROLLED HCL EVOLUTION
Nanotechnology can improve the thermal stability of PVC, allowing it to withstand higher temperatures without degrading. This is vital for cables that may be exposed to high heat. It can also help control the release of hydrochloric acid (HCl) during degradation.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS AND COST SAVINGS
The widespread and distributed interactions of nanoparticles with the PVC matrix can promote improved durability. Further, the ability to achieve desired properties with a limited amount of additives (even down to 0.3 phr) can lead to cost savings in material usage.