What Is Vinyl Fabric?

Vinyl is a fabric-like material that is a plastic. It is one of the most useful plastics that has ever been developed. Vinyl is a durable material. It is inexpensive to manufacture. It is used in a variety of products, including upholstery.

History

In 1927, the first vinyl plastic to be commercially manufactured was PVC.

Features

Vinyl can be as flexible as cloth or as rigid and stiff as wood. It can be made in any color, and it can even be transparent.

Function

Vinyl is used to make vinyl phonographic records, leather-like upholstery, toys, furniture, flooring, luggage, raincoats, milk cartons, and many other products.

Significance

Vinyl is rugged and it does not easily tear or break. It can withstand exposure to some acids, oils, alcohol, and water.

Ingredients

Vinyl is made from petroleum, natural gas and salt. Vinyl burns slowly, and it will begin to loose its shape when it reaches 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Types

There are different types of vinyl. All vinyl contains a chemical called vinyl, with the formual: CH2 CH.

Warning

In the 1970's, research indicated that breathing vinyl chloride--used in making PVC pipe--caused serious health hazards. Changes were made to improve the air quality of manufacturers making the plastics.

Resources

• Vinyl Cloride