How Plasticizers Affect Mechanical Properties
How Plasticizers Affect Mechanical Properties
Plasticizers directly influence PVC’s flexibility, strength, elongation, low-temperature performance and processability. Selecting the right plasticizer is essential for final product performance.
1. Flexibility & Hardness
Higher plasticizer content → lower Shore hardness and increased flexibility.
• DOP, DINP → general-purpose
• DOTP → stable flexibility
• DOA → excellent cold-temperature performance
2. Tensile Strength & Elongation
Aromatic vs. linear ester structure changes polymer mobility:
• Aromatic esters → stronger mechanical properties
• Linear esters → softer yet balanced performance
3. Low-Temperature Behavior
Critical for hoses, outdoor cables, food-grade films.
DOA and TOTM maintain flexibility below –20°C.
4. Processability
Plasticizer choice affects:
✓ fusion time
✓ torque
✓ viscosity
✓ extrusion speed
Conclusion
The mechanical behavior of PVC is fundamentally shaped by the plasticizer system chosen for the formulation.