Cellular PVC for green outdoor decking 
(14/05/2008)
As the enthusiasm for outdoor decking grows from year to year, there is something different underfoot: it’s cellular PVC, an innovative foamed polyvinyl chloride product for decking and trim boards that’s environmentally advanced and easy to work with.
Thanks to new developments in technology, cellular PVC materials are becoming increasingly popular for decking and trim work. Rohm and Haas develops and supplies processing aids that enable companies to produce cellular PVC construction materials. These innovative plastics mimic wood, last for many years, protect resources, and limit carbon emissions by reducing the need to transport heavier materials. Perfect for harsh climates like coastal areas, cellular PVC materials are extraordinarily durable: they resist water, weather, insects, sun and mold, and even grease splatter from your BBQ.
Cellular PVC materials represent a multi-faceted environmental win that prompted discerning builders and homeowners to purchase approximately $45 million worth of cellular PVC decking in 2006, a trend that is helping “green” decking grow 20 percent annually.
In addition, Rohm and Haas develops and supplies PVC stabilizers that replace traditional additives containing lead and zinc. This enables PVC manufacturers to make PVC pipe that doesn’t contain these dangerous heavy metals. These new additives also support recycling – which is difficult with PVC pipes containing lead and zinc – thereby helping to reduce the discarded plastics that make up about a tenth of our solid waste.
These products are not only good for the planet, they’re good for business, too. In Europe, they help PVC makers meet voluntary lead reduction standards in advance of pending government regulations.
Related categories: Environmental legislation Environmental technologies for Residential and Green homes Plastic recycling Recyclable materials
