polüvinüülalkoholi

Polyvinyl alcohol, often abbreviated as PVA or PVOH, is a synthetic polymer. It is produced by the hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate. The degree of hydrolysis, which refers to the extent to which acetate groups are replaced by hydroxyl groups, significantly affects the properties of the resulting PVA. PVAs are typically white or off-white solids in their manufactured form, often supplied as flakes or granules.

PVA is water-soluble, a property that distinguishes it from many other vinyl polymers. This solubility is dependent on both the degree of hydrolysis and the molecular weight of the polymer. Higher degrees of hydrolysis generally lead to increased water solubility. The polymer forms a clear, colorless, and viscous solution in water.

The applications of polyvinyl alcohol are diverse due to its unique properties. It is widely used as a binder in paper coatings and adhesives, providing strength and water resistance. In the textile industry, it serves as a sizing agent, improving the weaveability of yarns. PVA is also employed in the manufacturing of films, including those used for food packaging and disposable water-soluble bags, as it can form strong, flexible films. Furthermore, it finds use in contact lenses, as a thickener in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and in the production of polyvinyl butyral, a key component of laminated safety glass. Its biodegradability under certain conditions is also an area of interest for environmental applications.