Based on their molecular structure and polymerization characteristics, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins can generally be classified into three types: general-purpose PVC resin, high-polymerization PVC resin, and cross-linked PVC resin. Although these types share the same basic polymer, their production processes and material properties differ.
- General-Purpose PVC Resin: This type is produced by polymerizing vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) in the presence of an initiator. Due to its versatility and processing flexibility, it is widely used in pipes, profiles, films, cables, and other plastic products.
- High-Polymerization PVC Resin: This resin is manufactured through polymerization processes designed to achieve a higher degree of polymerization. As a result, it can provide specific mechanical properties and processing characteristics for applications with more demanding performance requirements.
- Cross-Linked PVC Resin: This type is produced through specialized processes involving cross-linking agents. The resulting molecular structure can improve certain material properties, making it suitable for selected industrial applications.
From a raw material perspective, if polyvinyl chloride resin is produced using ethylene as a raw material, fluctuations in international crude oil prices have a significant impact. When crude oil prices rise, ethylene costs increase, and PVC resin production costs rise, driving up prices. When using the calcium carbide method, fluctuations in the prices of raw materials like coal affect calcium carbide prices, which in turn influences PVC resin costs and prices. Market supply and demand are also key factors. When demand for PVC resin is strong in downstream industries like construction and packaging, while supply is relatively insufficient, prices rise. Conversely, when market capacity is excessive and demand is weak, prices face downward pressure.
For example, during a construction industry downturn, demand for PVC door and window profiles, pipes, and fittings decreases, suppressing PVC resin prices. Macroeconomic conditions and policies and regulations also play a role. During economic booms, various industries expand, increasing demand for PVC resin and driving up prices. Stricter environmental protection policies require companies to invest more in environmental protection, potentially leading to price increases. Trade policy adjustments, such as changes in import and export tariffs, can also alter polyvinyl chloride resin import and export volumes, impacting domestic market supply, demand, and prices.