Building and construction
The phthalate plasticiser DEHP is extensively used in PVC for the building and construction industry.
PVC is the most widely used polymer in building and construction applications and over 50 per cent of Western Europe’s annual PVC production is used in this sector. This includes a considerable amount of flexible PVC that is plasticised with phthalates like DEHP.
There are two main applications for DEHP-plasticised PVC in building and construction:
Cladding and roof membranes
Plasticised polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is chosen for cladding (facing for buildings) and roofing due to its durability, high thermal insulation and excellent weathering performance with good resistance to UV light and ozone.
Examples of such use include Le Stade de France which hosts France’s major
sporting events.
Cables, flooring and wallcovering
Plasticised PVC is the most widely used electrical insulation material in use today for the protection of wires and insulation for cables used in building and construction projects, from homes to office and factories. About 25 per cent of all plasticised PVC is used by the wire, cable and electrical industries.
Plasticised PVC also makes comfortable, safe and stylish floors for buildings of every size and use all over the world and at a price within the reach of millions. These floors are no less than a quiet revolution dependent on phthalate plasticisers.
Soft PVC wallcoverings offer a wide range of styles, long-life and unbeatable cost effectiveness. The success of PVC for wallcoverings depends on phthalate plasticisers which not only allow the polymer to be soft and flexible but also facilitate key aesthetic, design and hygiene qualities.