PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is a water-soluble polymer made from the monomer N-vinylpyrrolidone. It is a hygroscopic, amorphous, and non-ionic substance. It is miscible with various organic solvents such as water, alcohol, ether, and chloroform. Its pH value is stable and it can form transparent films. Approximately 1.5 million tons are produced annually.
PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in many fields in both industry and daily life. By polymerizing or esterifying PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone), various PVP derivatives can be obtained. These derivatives are used in sectors such as glass, ceramics, soap, fertilizer, paint, textiles, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, sealants, water treatment, and more.
Chemical and Physical Properties of PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone):
- Molecular Weight: 40,000–60,000 g/mol
- Melting Point: 150 °C
- Boiling Point: None
- Density: 1.05 g/mL
- Solubility: High in water and alcohol, moderate in ether, low in chloroform
- pKa Value: 4.25
Production Methods of PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone):
- Radical Polymerization Method: This is the most common production method for PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone). The N-vinylpyrrolidone monomer is converted into the PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymer through a radical polymerization reaction initiated by heat or light. Some inhibitors are also used in this method.
- Ionic Polymerization Method: This is an alternative production method for PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone). The N-vinylpyrrolidone monomer is converted into the PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymer through an ionic polymerization reaction initiated by an ionic initiator. This method allows for the production of polymers with higher molecular weights at lower temperatures.
Applications of PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone):
- Glass Industry: PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in the glass industry. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymers applied to the glass surface enhance its light transmittance and durability. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) adhesives are also used for bonding glass.
- Ceramic Industry: PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in the ceramic industry. Polymers added to ceramic slurry regulate its fluidity and firing temperature. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polish is also used for finishing ceramics.
- Soap Industry: PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in the soap industry. It is used in the saponification of oils used in soap making. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymers also enhance foam formation and resistance to hard water.
- Fertilizer Industry: PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in the fertilizer industry. It is used to prevent ammonium nitrate used in fertilizer production from exploding. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymers also improve water retention and nutrient uptake in plants.
- Paint Industry: PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in the paint industry. It is used to enhance the solubility of resins and pigments used in paint production. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymers also improve adhesion, drying, and gloss of the paint.
Textile Industry: PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) is used in the textile industry. It is used for dyeing, printing, and finishing fabrics. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) polymers are also used to brighten colors, soften fabrics, and prevent wrinkles.