Polyvinyl alcohol is an organic compound with the chemical formula [C2H4O]n. It is white flaky, flocculent or powdery solid in appearance and odourless. It is soluble in water (above 95℃), slightly soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide, insoluble in gasoline, paraffin, vegetable oil, benzene, toluene, dichloroethane, carbon tetrachloride, acetone, ethyl acetate, methanol, ethylene glycol and so on. Polyvinyl alcohol is an important chemical raw material used in the manufacture of polyvinyl alcohol acetal, petrol-resistant pipes and vinylon, fabric treatments, emulsifiers, paper coatings, adhesives, glues and so on.

Basic information

Application

Used in the manufacture of polyvinyl acetal, petrol resistant pipes and vinyls, fabric treatment agents, emulsifiers, paper coatings, adhesives, etc.

First aid measures

Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing and flush with running water.

Eye contact: Lift eyelids and flush with running water or saline. Seek medical attention.

Inhalation: Drag away from scene to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Seek medical attention.

Ingestion: Drink plenty of warm water and induce vomiting. Seek medical attention.

Protective measures

Respiratory protection: Self-absorbing filtered dust masks must be worn when the dust concentration in the air exceeds the limit. An air respirator should be worn in case of emergency rescue or evacuation.
Eye protection: Wear chemical safety glasses.
Body protection: Wear work clothes that are impermeable to toxic substances.
Hand protection: Wear rubber gloves.
Other protection: Smoking is strictly prohibited on the work site. Maintain good hygiene practices

Storage method

Store in a cool, ventilated warehouse. Keep away from fire and heat sources. Store separately from oxidising agents and do not mix them. Provide appropriate types and quantities of fire fighting equipment. The storage area should be equipped with suitable materials to contain spills.