HEADING 39.04 - POLYMERS OF VINYL CHLORIDE OR OF OTHER HALOGENATED OLEFINS

68 COMMODITIES

3904.10 - Polyvinyl chloride not mixed with any other substances

- Other polyvinyl chloride :

3904.21 - - Non-plasticised

3904.22 - - Plasticised

3904.30 - Vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers

3904.40 - Other vinyl chloride copolymers

3904.50 - Vinylidene chloride polymers

- Fluoro-polymers :

3904.61 - - Polytetrafluoroethylene

3904.69 - - Other

3904.90 - Other

This heading covers polyvinyl chloride (PVC) vinyl chloride copolymers vinylidene chloride polymers fluoropolymers and polymers of other halogenated olefins. For the classification of polymers (including copolymers) chemically modified polymers and polymer blends see the General Explanatory Note to this Chapter.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a rigid colourless material with limited heat stability and with a tendency to adhere to metallic surfaces when heated. For these and other reasons it is often necessary to add stabilisers plasticisers extenders fillers etc. to make useful plastics. In flexible sheet form polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is used widely as a waterproof material for curtains aprons raincoats etc. and as high grade imitation leather for upholstery and interior decoration in all types of passenger transportation.

Rigid PVC sheets find application in the fabrication of covers ducts tank linings and many other items of chemical plant equipment. PVC floor tiles are also common.

The most important copolymers of vinyl chloride are vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers which are mainly used for gramophone records and flooring.

Copolymers of vinylidene chloride are used largely for packaging of food products for upholstery fibres bristles and latex coatings and in the manufacture of pipes for chemical processing equipment.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) one of the most important fluoro-polymers has very wide-ranging applications in the electrical chemical and engineering industries.

Because of its high working temperature it is an excellent insulating material and due to its resistance to chemicals it is almost indestructible.

Other fluoro-polymers include polymers of chlorotrifluoroethylene polyvinylidene fluoride etc.