Since the main chain of the polymer is made by single bonds of carbon atoms, PVC has excellent chemical resistance, as with other general-purpose plastics such as PE, PP, or PS. The chart shows the chemical resistance of PVC in comparison with other plastics.
Some of the engineering plastics and specialty resins are susceptible to acid or alkali, and some plastics have excellent chemical resistance properties, such as polyfluorocarbons. PVC has excellent chemical resistance together with good mechanical properties, therefore is used for chemical storage tanks, plastic valves/flanges, drainage/sewage pipes, and plant piping.
Chemical resistance of various plastics and relative indexes
