Plasticiser Applications

Plastics and polymers are among the greatest inventions of the 20th century. They have become some of the most important and widely-used materials, not just to build our homes and offices, but also for making the increasing number of products that we use to support our everyday lives.

Many such products need to be flexible and soft in order that they can take on a different shape, feel and form depending on their application. This is particularly true of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) which is often 'plasticised' or softened using such plasticisers as phthalates. adipates, trimellitates and citrates. 95% of plasticiser production is for PVC end-use. 

Plasticisers are used in a wide range of applications from toys and babycare items, life-saving medical devices and cling wrap to flooring, wall coverings, electrical cables, automotive parts, packaging, stationery, coatings, and the manafacture of clothing and footwear.

Small quantities of plasticisers are also used in paints, rubber products, adhesives and some cosmetics.