How to dissolve PVC thermoplastic

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    Dissolve Pvc
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on methods for dissolving PVC thermoplastic, particularly in the context of removing it from electrical wires. Participants explore various chemical and physical approaches, including the use of heat and solvents.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about accessible chemicals for dissolving PVC thermoplastic from wires.
  • Another suggests heating the wires to 80-90 degrees Celsius to facilitate peeling off the thermoplastic, noting the likely characteristics of PVC as an addition polymer that may resist dissolution.
  • Some participants propose that acetone can dissolve PVC, with one reiterating this point and mentioning acetone's effects on various plastics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the best method to dissolve PVC, with multiple approaches suggested, including heating and the use of acetone. The effectiveness of these methods remains contested.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the ease of dissolving PVC due to its high molecular weight and intermolecular forces, and there are no detailed discussions on the safety or effectiveness of the proposed methods.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in materials science, DIY electrical work, or chemical properties of plastics may find this discussion relevant.

samblohm
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How would i dissolve the pvc thermoplastic on electrical wires? (with chemicals that are attainable easily from stores)
 
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Do you simply want to remove the thermoplastic from the wires? If so, you could heat the wires to 80-90 degrees celsius, near the melting temperature, and peel it off, I suppose.

The type of PVC you talk about is likely an addition polymer (as opposed to a radical polymer), which probably doesn't dissolve easily, due to the high molecular weight and strong intermolecular Van der Waals forces.
 
Acetone dissolves PVC.
 
alxm said:
Acetone dissolves PVC.

I was just going to suggest this. Acetone messes up just about any plastic.
 

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