Project description
The PVC Controversy
PVC is short for poly(vinyl chloride). This polymer is a very strong and very rigid plastic. PVC has many applications, it is used to make pipes and is used for plumbing in most houses. PVC is also used to make the “vinyl” siding on the outside of houses. But there is a problem, plasticizers are used to make PVC soft and flexible, these can be toxic and carcinogenic.
Using PVC has risks, and some people would like to ban it. This may seem like a good idea, but alternatives to PVC aren’t always easy to find.
In this activity, you will set out on a quest to find solutions to the PVC dilemma. You will research PVC and what its uses and benefits are. You will prepare a 2 pages report of your findings. You also need to provide ideas for possible solutions. Please try to avoid simplistic solutions such as “stop using PVC.” That only works if you have a good replacement for PVC in every possible use. Put APA citation at the end.

Your written report should answer the following questions:
1. How is PVC synthesized? What is the monomer used?
2. What are the applications of PVC?
3. What are the characteristics of PVC?
4. What are the health hazards associated with the use of PVC?
5. For what uses should people keep using PVC?

Useful resources:
For the uses and benefits of PVC:
PVC-Toys.com : industry-based advocacy group.
Chlorophiles : an organization of workers in PVC-related industries, based in Belgium. The site contains an ample list of other PVC and chlorine-related sites.

For the risks of PVC:
It’s Perfectly Clear: The Case Against PVC Packaging : from the Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group.
Europe to ban PVC toys : report from BBC News.
New Concerns about Phthalates : explores the risks posed by plasticized PVC, from
Science News.
Our Stolen Future : site on the risks of hormone-distrupting compounds, including
phthalates used to plasticize PVC. http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/NEWSCIENCE/oncompounds/phthalates/phthalates.htm