What are the differences in thermal degradation rates between PVC and polyethylene?
Thermal degradation rates between PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and polyethylene (PE) differ significantly due to their distinct chemical structures and stability mechanisms. PVC degrades at lower temperatures (around 140-300°C) due to the release of hydrogen chloride (HCl), which accelerates breakdown. In contrast, polyethylene, with its simpler hydrocarbon structure, degrades at higher temperatures (300-400°C) through chain scission, resulting in slower degradation. Factors like additives, oxygen exposure, and processing conditions further influence these rates. Understanding these differences is crucial for applications requiring heat resistance, such as packaging, construction, and automotive industries.
