PVC —
chemically resistant
for special applications

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 thermoforming chemically resistant blister packaging — Scafa Thermoforming

PVC — the chemistry specialist in thermoforming

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.

Chemically Resistant

Acids, alkalis, many solvents — PVC withstands chemically aggressive environments where other materials fail.

Honest Advice

We recommend PET alternatives wherever possible. Transparent communication instead of greenwashing — that is our standard in Sundern.

Special Case

Only where no PET material meets the requirement do we use PVC. For everything else, there are better, recyclable alternatives.

Technical Data

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

Sustainable Alternatives to PVC

In most applications, PET-based materials can fully replace PVC — often with better properties and full recyclability.

When is PVC actually necessary?

In these cases, PVC remains the technically superior choice — and only in these cases do we recommend its use.

Chemically Aggressive Environments

Strong acids, alkalis or solvents that would attack PET-based materials.

Specific Migration Requirements

Pharmaceutical packaging with standardized migration limits that only PVC can meet.

Legacy Tools with PVC-Specific Shrinkage Behavior

Existing tools designed for the shrinkage behavior of PVC that would require a complete tool rebuild.

No PET Material Meets the Requirement

After thorough evaluation of all PET alternatives, PVC remains the only technically viable solution.

Frequently Asked Questions about PVC

Why does Scafa recommend PET instead of PVC?

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.

Is PVC still a contemporary material?

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.

Can you convert my PVC product to PET?

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.

What does the conversion from PVC to PET cost?

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.

Does Scafa still process PVC?

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.

Our Products

Discover our complete range of thermoforming packaging — Made in Germany from Sundern.

Request PVC Consultation

Describe your requirements — we will evaluate whether PVC is truly necessary or whether a PET alternative is suitable.

Call Directly
+49 (0) 2935 6099956
Scafa Thermoforming GmbH
Am Lindhövel 4 · 59846 Sundern
E-Mail
info@scafa.de
Made in Germany
Owner-Managed

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