Background

This Application Note shows performance for the elemental analysis of Cl, Mg, Si, S, Ca, Ti, Mo and Sn in PVC resin. Empirical calibrations are shown for the quantitative analysis of the elements PVC resins, and instrument repeatability is demonstrated. Qualitative spectra are also shown, indicating the other trace elements in the resins (Cu, Zn, Cr, Sb, Fe, and Ni). Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a very versatile thermoplastic polymer. The plastic is inexpensive and durable with excellent resistance to corrosion and chemical attack. PVC resins in fine powder granular form are produced and blended to make a myriad of products. Common uses of PVC include piping and hoses, bottles and bottle caps, and insulation coatings for wire. PVC is also used in flooring material, upholstery and clothing. In the compounding process various PVC formulations are created. Pigments, stabilizers and stearates are added to adjust color and other physical properties of the final product. Plasticizers are also added to affect the flexibility and softness of the product, making PVC the third most common plastic used in industry. In the research of PVC formulations as well as throughout the manufacturing process, a fast, reliable and precise method of analysis is required in the industry. The Rigaku EDXRF analyzer meets these needs with instrumentation advanced and versatile enough for expert use in R&D while remaining simple enough for use by non-technical operators in several areas of manufacturing QA/QC.