February 20, 2025 – PVC Industry Embraces Mercury-Free Production Amid Growing Environmental Concerns
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a versatile plastic material widely used in construction, packaging, healthcare, electronics, and more, is increasingly under the spotlight for its environmental impact during production. The traditional calcium carbide method of PVC production, which relies on mercury-based catalysts, has posed significant threats to both the environment and human health. Globally, research and practice towards mercury-free PVC production are advancing, aiming to explore greener and more sustainable production pathways.
The commercial application of PVC dates back to the 1920s, thanks to an accidental discovery by American chemist Simon. By heat-treating the initially rigid and brittle PVC, he made it flexible, thus opening up new avenues for its widespread use in waterproof materials, electronic components, and beyond. However, the production process of PVC has not been without challenges, particularly in the manufacture of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), where mercury chloride catalysts have linked PVC to mercury pollution.
According to AsiaMB, the calcium carbide process is one of the primary methods for PVC production. This process involves reacting calcium carbide with water to produce acetylene, which is then combined with hydrogen chloride to form vinyl chloride. Mercury chloride catalysts play a crucial role in this process, enhancing the efficiency of vinyl chloride production. Nevertheless, the use of these highly effective catalysts has brought about undeniable environmental and health risks. With heightened environmental awareness, the transition to mercury-free production in the PVC industry has become an inevitable trend.
In response to the technical challenges of mercury-free production, research institutions and enterprises both domestically and internationally are actively developing new catalysts to replace mercury chloride, as well as optimizing production processes to reduce energy consumption and pollutant emissions. The green development path of the PVC industry in the future will rely on the continuous advancement of these technological innovations and environmental practices, aiming to achieve environmentally friendly, efficient, and sustainable PVC production.