The Dangers of PVC: Say No to Toxic

What are the finishes used in your home interior made of? Hopefully not PVC. Because, well, PVC’s toxic to the core! 

PVC is dubbed “poison plastic” for a valid reason. The material used to make PVC contains carcinogens amongst a range of other nasties that’s detrimental to human health. It releases toxic fumes when burned and also does not truly decompose, making it harmful to the environment. 

PVC is toxic to you, your family and the environment at every stage of its life cycle from production through disposal. This article explores the dangers of PVC in depth, empowering you to make the best decision for your next renovation project. 

Keep reading to find out what PVC is made of and the potential dangers. Plus, know why ditching PVC splashbacks and wall panels in favour of Innovative Splashbacks’ acrylic option is such a brilliant idea. 

What Is PVC? 

PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. It’s a synthetic plastic used to make a wide range of everyday products, from wall coverings to children’s toys. A lightweight, rigid plastic, it is one of the world’s most widely produced plastics, second only to polyethylene (PE) amongst plastics in production and consumption today. 

What Is PVC Made Of? 

PVC is made of chlorine and ethylene as the main building blocks. A number of additives may be introduced during PVC formulation to enhance specific properties of the final product. Common additives include plasticisers, stabilisers, phthalates, fillers, lubricants, pigments and flame retardants. These additives are necessary to shape PVC into various final forms such as sheets, pipes, profiles and fittings.  

The Dangers of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC poses a series of serious threats to human health and the environment at every stage of its life cycle – from production to disposal. Now, let’s examine the dangers of PVC in detail. These are the dangers of PVC you should know about.

Toxic at the Start

PVC’s toxicity starts right at the point of production. The process begins with the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) by chemically reacting ethylene with chlorine. This chemical reaction generates vinyl chloride gas — a highly toxic and volatile chemical. Exposure to vinyl chloride can cause dizziness, fatigue, numbness, ataxia, wheezing, irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract irritation, among other serious illnesses. 

Toxic Building Blocks

PVC’s basic building block is vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a known human carcinogen. Inhaling VCM can cause or increase the risk of angiosarcoma, a rare liver cancer, as well as cancers of the brain, lungs and blood. Long term exposure can also lead to liver damage, neurotroxity, scleroderma, acro-osteorylitis and problems associated with miscarriages and birth defects.

Additives Toxicity 

PVC would be remotely flexible or useful without additives. In order to make it more flexible, it requires additives, among which are phthalates - which are known endocrine disruptors. Exposure to these substances interferes with the body’s normal hormonal system by altering the production of natural hormones. The result? Adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological and immune effects.

Off-Gassing Concerns

PVC emits volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as phthalates, monomers and stabilisers, in interior applications such as wall panels or flooring. These emissions can lead to poor indoor air quality, which can trigger respiratory issues, headaches and allergic reactions. Over the long term, they can be dangerous for children, in particular, as their developing bodies are more vulnerable to toxic substances. 

Toxic Smoke 

In a case of fire, smoke produced from burning PVC is thick, black and toxic. The toxic fumes primarily contain hydrogen chloride gas which can form hydrochloric acid in the lungs when inhaled. Hydrochloric acid is highly corrosive to metals so you can imagine how dangerous it can be to your lungs. It can be fatal, without a doubt! 

Increased Carbon Footprint

PVC’s production relies heavily on fossil fuels. As well as vinyl chloride gas, the process generates a number of other nasties such as phthalates, heavy metals, dioxins and hydrogen chloride. All of these pollutants contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the fact that PVC’s burning relies on fossil fuels gives rise to climate change concerns and serious environmental impacts.

Chemical Leaching 

Over time, toxic additives used in PVC’s production can leach out into the soil, water and even the food chain which is our very lifeline. This often happens as a result of heat or wear and increases exposure risks within homes. Eating contaminated food or using contaminated water for showering, cooking or laundry, consequently causes adverse health effects.

PVC Is Non-Biodegrable 

PVC can never truly decompose when disposed of. It only breaks down into smaller particles instead. And this can contribute to microplastic pollution. These particles stay in ecosystems for many, many decades and over time, infiltrate soil and waterways and ultimately find their way into the food chain where they wreak the most health havoc. 

Difficult To Recycle

PVC is notoriously difficult to recycle due to its high chlorine content and toxic additives. The material can release harmful chemicals when it is melted. It requires specialised, expensive sorting to set contaminants apart, so recycling is not feasible nor sustainable. As a result, the majority of PVC waste ends up in landfills or is incinerated, raising environmental concerns.

So, Is PVC in Your Home a Good Choice? 

The answer to this question is a resounding no. PVC is absolutely not safe to use in your homes, be it for splashbacks, wall panels, shower panels or any other interior finish, for that matter.

They might be cheap, but the risk involved is far too high. As you’ve seen, the price we pay as a society, due to the health and environmental hazards associated with the use of and exposure to PVC, is steep. 

PVC’s production releases toxic substances, requires substantial energy inputs and relies on carcinogenic ingredients. Additionally, its performance in the home isn’t exactly reassuring either. Its off-gassing, chemical leaching and additive toxicity all contribute to poor indoor air quality and long-term health risks.

And when burned, it becomes even more dangerous, releasing corrosive, toxic fumes. And the problem lingers far beyond the end of its life. PVC does not biodegrade, contributes to microplastic pollution and is extremely difficult to recycle, making it a "worst-in-class" material. No wonder there’s a global push for phasing it out by 2030.

What Are the Alternatives to PVC? 

As a smart consumer, you may wonder what safer alternatives to PVC are there. Among the best PVC alternatives in existence today are glass, steel, tiles (except for grouting of course) and acrylic. None of them are off-gassing or degrading in ways that are detrimental to your health or the environment.

Acrylic, in particular, is the cream of the crop. In comparison to PVC, acrylic contains no toxic chemicals, is inert and is recyclable. And in case of fire acrylic produces almost no smoke and no toxic fumes. 

Where to Buy High Quality Acrylic Wall Panels? 

You can find premium acrylic splashbacks and decorative wall panels at Innovative Splashbacks, a trusted choice for stylish interior solutions. As a manufacturer and supplier of certified Australian Made acrylic wall panels, Innovative Splashbacks offer quick turnaround times and nationwide to your door delivery. 

Our splashbacks and wall panels are the most cost effective and durable on the market. And they meet and exceed the highest safety standards, making them safe for you, your loved ones and the environment. 

Say goodbye to toxic PVC wall panels for good. Buy acrylic wall panels from Innovative Splashbacks today and enjoy the benefits without worrying about risks. 

You can find out more by browsing this website. And you can get inspiration by browsing our gallery. You’ll see real jobs from real clients. 

They are ideal for DIY renovators, and we deliver these direct to your door nation wide. 

You can call us on 0418 548 743 or send us information about your project on the contact page. You can also email us directly at help@innovativesplashbacks.com.au . 

We will be happy to answer your questions.