The u in uPVC refers to the PVC being unplasticised. PVC is a rather hard and stiff polymer which makes it unsuitabe for many uses, such as bottles, packaging etc. A plasticiser is added to modify the physical properties of the polymer.
| DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PVC and uPVC | ||
|---|---|---|
| Categories | PVC | uPVC |
| Full Name | Polyvinyl chloride | Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride |
| Uses | Pipes, cable insulation, clothes, toys | Window frames, plumbing and draining |
| Contains phthalates | Yes | No |
| Contains BPA | Yes | No |
| Properties | Flexible, but durable. low cost | Rigid and durable, does not flex, safe for transporting drinking water, fire-resistant, recyclable |
uPVC is used for window frames, as it does not decompose, is weather-resistant, does not change shape under normal weather conditions, and is recyclable, as it can be reshaped at high temperature. uPVC windows are more energy-efficient than those with wooden or metal frames. It can also be used for door frames and conservatories.