Essential Quality Parameters of Plasticizers

Abstract The basic quality parameters of plasticizers that determine their suitability for softening polymers include, among others, their compatibility, plasticization efficiency and volatility. These parameters determine the durability of the plasticizer in the polymer matrix. The Flory–Huggins interaction parameter, whose selected values are presented in this chapter, has been adopted as the criterion of poly(vinyl chloride) miscibility with plasticizers. The solubility parameter is considered to be one of the most important factors in polymer–plasticizer interaction. This chapter gives examples of Hansen's parameters for selected plasticizers and polymers. Other very important functional parameters of plasticizers such as their volatility, plasticization efficiency and permanence, i.e., its tendency to remain in the plasticized material, have also been discussed. The antiplasticization effect that occurs when small amounts of plasticizer are used in the polymer composition is discussed in the last part of this chapter. The characterized basic quality parameters of plasticizers may be useful in the preparation of formulations for plasticized polymer compositions.