PVC films are mainly classified according to plasticizer content and forming process.
Soft PVC Film (Plasticized PVC Film)
Contains 10%~50% plasticizers, feels soft, and has good toughness.
Common uses: Flooring, ceilings, leather surfaces, agricultural greenhouse films, and some packaging materials.
Disadvantage: Becomes brittle over long-term use; plasticizers may migrate, so not recommended for food heating or contact with fatty foods.
Rigid PVC Film (Unplasticized PVC Film)
Contains little or no plasticizers, has strong rigidity, good flexibility, not easily brittle, non-toxic, and pollution-free.
Accounts for about 2/3 of the market, widely used in building materials (such as doors and windows, decorative films), electrical tapes, medical packaging, etc.
Classification by Forming Process
Calendered Film: Formed by calendering rollers, uniform thickness, commonly used for decorative films in building materials.
Blown Film: Formed by extrusion blow molding, suitable for agricultural films, packaging films, etc.
Cast Film: Molten material is cast from the die, with high transparency and smooth surface.
Biaxially Oriented Film:Though rarely used for PVC, some special PVC films use this process to improve mechanical properties.
Common Types by Application
PVC Shrink Film: Shrinks when heated, used for wine, beverage labels, and product outer packaging, with high transparency and adjustable shrink rate.
PVC Cling Film: A soft PVC, only used for preserving fresh fruits and vegetables, avoiding contact with fatty foods or high temperatures.
PVC Agricultural Film: Includes ordinary greenhouse films, anti-aging films, anti-drip anti-aging films, etc., used for greenhouse covering.
Medical PVC Film: Must pass biocompatibility tests, used for infusion bags, surgical drapes, etc.
Electrical Insulating Tape Base Film: Takes advantage of PVC's good insulation and strong weather resistance.