PEVA

PEVA stands for polyethylene vinyl acetate, a non-chlorinated plastic polymer. It is a type of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer in which vinyl acetate units are comonomers with ethylene, resulting in a flexible, water-resistant material. PEVA is produced by polymerizing ethylene and vinyl acetate under controlled conditions, and is commonly sold as a safer alternative to PVC because it generally contains no chlorine and is marketed as phthalate-free.

PEVA polymers are typically soft and clear, with good low-temperature flexibility and good resistance to water, oils, and many chemicals. They offer good electrical insulation and light weight, and can be formulated with varying vinyl acetate content to adjust clarity, strength, and flexibility. They are not inherently flame-retardant and often require additives to meet specific fire-safety standards.

Common applications include shower curtains and liners, rainwear, inflatable products, packaging films, and certain insulation or tubing products. PEVA is favored in consumer goods where flexibility, ease of processing, and a reduced environmental profile are valued relative to chlorine-containing plastics.

Environmental and safety notes: PEVA is generally considered non-toxic in typical consumer uses and is marketed as phthalate-free. It is not biodegradable and is not always readily recyclable in standard curbside programs, though some facilities recycle PEVA or EVA blends. End-of-life options include specialized recycling streams, energy recovery, or disposal in accordance with local regulations. Overall, PEVA represents a middle ground between conventional PVC and more biodegradable plastics, offering a compromise of performance and reduced chlorine content.