Tin soaps in emulsion PVC heat stabilization

In this study, the effect of a liquid stabilizer based on organotins on PVC heat stability is investigated. Control and films with tin soap heat stabilizer Sn500K were prepared by solvent casting and they were heated at 160 and 180degreesC for different time periods. X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy analysis showed that tin was present in Sn500K and it was lead-free. DSC analysis showed that glass-transition temperature of films with Sn500K increased from 67 to 75-85degreesC by heating for 15 min at 180degreesC. IR spectroscopy indicated that concentration of carboxylate groups of Sn500K decreased with heating. Films with Sn500K did not degrade for short heating periods; however, degradation occurred in long heating times. Low concentration of Sn500K was recommended, since at high levels incompatibility with PVC and acceleration of degradation was observed. In the high temperature range, control and stabilized samples degraded in the same manner in two steps. (C) 2002 John Wiley Sons, Inc.