Applications

The PVC structure allows it to be mixed (compounded) with all different "additives". By varying the tin stabilizer all properties can be obtained in the final product.

Rigid (transparent) films and sheets (calendering).
This is by far the largest application for organotin stabilizers in Europe. The processing technique is called calendering. Food contact approved tin mercaptides are used to produce rigid transparent PVC films and sheets which are mainly used for food packaging and for pharmaceutical applications (blisters).

This application represents approximately 50 percent of the total consumption of organotin stabilizers in Europe due to the unique property of organotin stabilizers to provide transparency to PVC with almost no discoloration.
[Back to Top]

Rigid PVC bottles (injection blow molding).
Rigid PVC bottles are produced by (injection) blow molding. Under the high shear during processing by this application technique, organotin mercaptides are efficient PVC stabilizers due to very good heat stability and lubricating effect.

The bottles are mainly used for vegetable oil, juices, wine or non-food packaging (cosmetics, etc.). Since food approval is generally required, octyltin- and methyltin mercaptides are used.
[Back to Top]

Weatherable transparent sheets (extrusion)
These products are used in the construction industry mainly for roofing, and, therefore, require very good transparency, clarity and UV outdoor weathering stability.

For this application mainly butyltin stabilizers and methyltin are used. Because of the weatherability requirements, most stabilizers are based on carboxylates (or sometimes mixtures of carboxylates and mercaptides).
[Back to Top]

Pipes and fittings (extrusion and injection molding).
Organotin stabilizers (mainly octyltin and methyltin) are used for rigid PVC potable water pipes and fittings in countries where lead stabilizers are not allowed for regulatory reasons.

The regulations in France, Germany, and The Netherlands, covering potable water pipes, approve both thioglycolate and reverse ester products, while in Italy only thioglycolates are allowed.
[Back to Top]

Profiles and sidings.
Organotin stabilizers (mainly butyltin) are used for rigid PVC profiles and sidings. Venetian blinds, rain gutters, window profiles and, in particular in the U.S. sidings, are successful applications for indoor and outdoor use.
[Back to Top]

	Miscellaneous. Other applications do exist for both rigid and flexible PVC: rigid PVC foams, top coat layers in flexible PVC flooring, flexible calendered sheets, and various rigid profiles are just some examples.
[Back to Top]