Different Types of PVC Self Adhesive Vinyl
PVC self adhesive vinyl comes in a wide range of grades with varying technical features. Feature differences are a result of the liners and adhesives used in each product.
The surface on which the vinyl will be applied should be smooth and clean. Ideally, it should also be free of dust and particles which could cause the vinyl to lose its stick.
Waterproof
While most PVC self adhesive vinyl is waterproof, not all is created equal. Some are PVC self adhesive vinyl designed to work with specific printers, while others have special features that can make them easier to install and remove. It’s important to understand the differences between the different types of vinyl so that you can choose the best one for your application.
PVC self adhesive vinyl comes in a variety of thicknesses and finishes, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The material can be used for indoor and outdoor signs, awnings, banners, window graphics, and more. It is also a good choice for vehicle wraps. Unlike many other materials, it is very durable and offers excellent chemical resistance.
Innotech’s Polar Premium self-adhesive vinyl is available in both permanent and removable adhesive options. Its high-opacity ensures that the printing surface stays clean, which helps with color density and vibrancy. It is compatible with a variety of wide-format inks and works well with most standard printers.
The vinyl itself is made of polyvinyl chloride and compounds that give it precise characteristics of color, flexibility, hardness, and sheen. It is then pressed through rollers and coated with an adhesive layer and a silicone release liner. The production process involves calandering, which separates the PVC into polymeric and monomeric types. Polymeric films experience greater plasticiser migration over time and become brittle, whereas monomeric vinyls shrink more slowly but remain supple.
Removable
A removable vinyl is a type of adhesive-backed media that can be removed and repositioned without damaging the surface it adheres to. It’s a good option for commercial environments, as it allows you to easily change out messages or artwork. It also can be cleaned with a damp cloth or sponge. However, it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives when cleaning the vinyl.
Removable printable vinyl is made of a thin flexible PVC face film with a low-tack removable adhesive. It can be printed with solvent, eco-solvent, PVC self adhesive vinyl UV, and latex inks. Its durable construction and high tack make it a great choice for a wide range of applications. Its adhesive is non-toxic and easy to clean.
There are many different types of self-adhesive vinyl on the market, and each one has its own unique benefits. For example, some have a dot-patterned adhesive that makes it easier to apply graphics without bubbles. Others offer a wide temperature range to ensure that the adhesive sticks in all conditions. Some even have an expiry date, which helps prevent product degradation.
The best type of vinyl for your needs depends on the environment and application. If you want to create seasonal chalkboard art, use removable vinyl. For a more permanent look, choose outdoor permanent. But if you’re creating decals for your kids’ rooms, then you’ll probably want to stick with short-term Mactac 2 year vinyl.
High-tack
PVC self adhesive vinyl with high-tack is usually called cast or organosol and is manufactured using a casting or pouring process that is often followed by running the film through a series of ovens to cure or set. This allows the vinyl to become very thin and even while remaining flexible and allowing it to stretch up to 150% without creating internal stress or a physical memory.
The face film of this type of vinyl is then coated with a pressure sensitive adhesive. This adhesive is then backed with a smooth silicon coated paper known as the release liner to allow for easy removal of the vinyl. The release liner is also able to help minimize air bubbles while applying the film and during printing – something that is particularly important with higher-quality vinyls as it can cause the finished graphics to look blurry and inconsistent.
The high-tack vinyl will stick especially well to low-energy plastics as well as slightly textured or rough wall substrates such as brick, tile and concrete. It is therefore ideal for directional signage, shop-front displays and other indoor or outdoor signage that demands longevity and durability. The product can also be used to decorate a range of different objects such as glass acrylics, polycarbonate and plexiglass and is suitable for use on flat or curved surfaces including vehicles, walls and furniture.
Long-term
Unlike other types of flooring, vinyl tiles are easy to install and care for. They can be used in a variety of settings, and are a popular option for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, kids’ rooms, and other living spaces. Vinyl tile can also be removed when a resident moves out without causing damage to the subfloor. However, the production and disposal of vinyl tile can cause environmental concerns. Despite strict manufacturing standards, vinyl tile produces a significant amount of toxic chemicals, including chlorine and dioxin. It takes centuries to break down in landfills and can off-gas Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) that are dangerous to human health.
Different grades of self adhesive PVC are available based on the type of surface or application required. They are divided into Cast and Calendared, Polymeric and Monomeric. The difference is in how the media is hardened to make it flexible. Polymeric media uses larger long-chain plasticisers while monomeric films use smaller short-chain plasticisers. Over time these plasticisers migrate out of the product causing it to shrink and become brittle.
To address this, manufacturers use specialist adhesives and films to increase the durability of their products and allow them to be repositioned or even permanently removed. ASLAN’s LifeTime Removable range is ideal for these applications as it has a low initial tack and can be repositioned on surfaces with little to no adhesive residue. It is also designed to be printed with water-based or eco-solvent inks on a wide variety of surfaces and is suitable for both interior and exterior walls.