Abstract: We describe novel compositions and methods for reducing fire and smoke hazards associated with rigid and flexible PVC. Cone calorimetry studies have identified several copper additives that are highly effective as combustion inhibitors for PVC. Mixed-metal oxides of copper(II) are especially attractive in this regard, some of which are strongly synergistic for smoke suppression when they are combined, in particular CuTi3O7 and Cu3(MoO4)2(OH)2. These novel combinations are useful for PVC applications wherein color is not of primary importance.

Abstract: A novel organic thiol stabilizer for PVC is described herein. Specifically, this novel thiol stabilizer for PVC is dipentaerythritol hexakis(mercaptoacetate). The organic thiol stabilizer of the present invention, when blended with halogen-containing polymers such as PVC, or derivatives thereof, provides advantages in cost and/or performance relative to existing organic stabilizers for PVC.

Abstract: Methods are described for preparing graft copolymers from poly(vinyl chloride) or vinyl chloride copolymers comprising reacting these materials with sources of selected metal-centered free radicals in the presence of one or more monomers that can undergo free-radical addition polymerization. The metal-centered free radicals used are capable of abstracting chlorine atoms from the starting polymer to form C-centered radicals that add to the monomer(s) in order to start the growth of branches via a free-radical route. This method is an effective method for producing PVC graft copolymers, and can be used to produce PVC graft copolymers having novel compositions. The methods of the invention are particularly useful for providing highly branched PVC graft copolymers.

Abstract: We describe novel compositions and methods for reducing fire and smoke hazards associated with rigid and flexible PVC. Cone calorimetry studies have identified several copper additives that are highly effective as combustion inhibitors for PVC. Mixed-metal oxides of copper(II) are especially attractive in this regard, some of which are strongly synergistic for smoke suppression when they are combined, in particular CuTi3O7 and Cu3(MoO4)2(OH)2. These novel combinations are useful for PVC applications wherein color is not of primary importance.

Abstract: A technique is described for the preparation of stable vinyl chloride polymers wherein a vinyl chloride polymer in solution is reacted with an organotin compound. The polymer is precipitated from solution and subjected to solvent extraction, the resultant polymers evidencing a stability which is comparable with that obtained by means of the conventional prior art stabilizers.