PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) offers maximum chemical resistance and remains irreplaceable in special applications. We process PVC for chemically demanding environments — but proactively recommend more sustainable PET alternatives wherever possible.
PVC is the classic thermoforming material — with high chemical resistance to acids, alkalis and many solvents. With a density of 1.38 g/cm³ and a forming temperature of 110–140°C, PVC is used where no PET alternative exists.
Honest positioning: Scafa proactively recommends switching from PVC to PET-based materials (GAG, GRG, R-PET). PVC is not recyclable within the PET recycling stream and contains chlorine. However, for specific chemical applications, PVC remains the technically superior choice.
Where PVC is still necessary: Chemically aggressive environments, certain pharmaceutical packaging (specific migration requirements) and legacy tools designed for the shrinkage behavior of PVC.
Our approach: We analyze every case individually. If a PET alternative works, we recommend switching — often even with cost savings. If PVC is truly necessary, we deliver top quality from Sundern. Transparent communication, no greenwashing.
Acids, alkalis, many solvents — PVC withstands chemically aggressive environments where other materials fail.
We recommend PET alternatives wherever possible. Transparent communication instead of greenwashing — that is our standard in Sundern.
Only where no PET material meets the requirement do we use PVC. For everything else, there are better, recyclable alternatives.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Polyvinyl Chloride |
| Density | 1.38 g/cm³ |
| Forming Temperature | 110–140°C |
| Chemical Resistance | Very High |
| Recyclability | Limited (not in PET recycling stream) |
| Chlorine Content | Yes |
| Transparency | Clear to slightly tinted |
| Supplier | Various Manufacturers |
| Scafa Recommendation | Consider PET Alternative |
In most applications, PET-based materials can fully replace PVC — often with better properties and full recyclability.
Food-safe, fully recyclable, ABA technology. The universal replacement for PVC in most standard applications.
Learn moreHF-weldable like PVC, but recyclable. The direct replacement for PVC in HF blister applications — without compromise.
Learn moreSealable like PVC, extremely tough. Ideal for seal blisters and applications that require high mechanical stress resistance.
Learn moreIn these cases, PVC remains the technically superior choice — and only in these cases do we recommend its use.
Strong acids, alkalis or solvents that would attack PET-based materials.
Pharmaceutical packaging with standardized migration limits that only PVC can meet.
Existing tools designed for the shrinkage behavior of PVC that would require a complete tool rebuild.
After thorough evaluation of all PET alternatives, PVC remains the only technically viable solution.
PET is fully recyclable within the PET recycling stream, contains no chlorine, and offers equal or better mechanical properties in most applications. We only use PVC where it is chemically irreplaceable.
For standard packaging: No. GAG, GRG and R-PET have replaced PVC in most applications. However, for chemical special cases, PVC remains the technically superior material.
In many cases, yes. We analyze your existing product, evaluate the requirements and recommend the optimal PET alternative. Material costs often even decrease in the process.
Material costs are comparable. The biggest investment is a new tool, as PET has different shrinkage behavior. Thanks to our in-house tooling in Sundern, we offer fast and cost-effective conversions.
Yes, we still process PVC for special cases. However, we advise you honestly and transparently: if a PET alternative exists, we recommend switching — for the environment and often for your budget as well.
Discover our complete range of thermoforming packaging — Made in Germany from Sundern.
Describe your requirements — we will evaluate whether PVC is truly necessary or whether a PET alternative is suitable.
We will get back to you within 24 hours.