PLASTISOL PRINTING (PVC)
The most widely used processes in apparel screen-printing is probably solvent-based plastisol. Plastisol printing inks are typically based on the PVC polymer.
So just what is PVC?
PVC is the acronym for polyvinyl chloride, a tough, durable, low cost plastic that is the second most popular plastic (by volume) next to polyethylene. PVC has tens of thousands of consumer and commercial uses. It is found in vinyl siding, wa- ter based emulsion paints, pipe, wire coatings, and floor tile. Plastisized (softened) versions are used for vinyl fabrics, medical products, plastic wrapping and flexible coatings. Packaging applications include meat wrap, “blister packs” and bottles for edible oils and some non-food products. And many plastisol printing inks. Pure PVC, with no additives or contaminants, is non-toxic. But you rarely see pure PVC in consumer products. Most of the time, PVC plastic is mixed with various auxiliary chemicals and plasticizers and then the health and safety story is not so rosy.
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