Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is a water-soluble synthetic polymer derived from polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) via hydrolysis. The degree of hydrolysis determines its solubility, crystallinity, and hydrogen bonding potential, making PVA highly versatile for coatings, adhesives, hydrogels, packaging films, textile processing, paper processing, and polymer research.
This 99+% hydrolyzed PVA grade has a molecular weight of approximately 78,000 and a 4% aqueous solution viscosity of 28-32 cPs. Its film-forming ability, chemical resistance, water interaction, and mechanical strength make it useful for formulations requiring controlled permeability, moisture retention, and structural integrity.
Higher hydrolysis grade PVA products require progressively more energy to dissolve because of their greater degree of crystallinity.
Key Properties
- Water-soluble synthetic polymer derived from hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate
- 99+% hydrolyzed grade for higher crystallinity and hydrogen bonding potential
- Product Number: 15129
- CAS Number: 9002-89-5
- Molecular weight: ~78,000
- Grade: 99+% hydrolyzed
- Viscosity: 4% aqueous solution = 28-32 cPs
- Synonyms: PVA, PVOH, Polyvinyl alcohol
- Glass transition temperature (Tg): ~85°
- Soluble in: Water, glycerol, glycols
- Melting point: >220°C
- Density: 1.29
Applications
Hydrogels & Biomedical Materials Research
Used in research involving hydrogel-forming polymers, wound dressing materials, contact lens materials, and controlled-release systems. Suitability for any medical, clinical, diagnostic, implantable, or regulated use must be independently validated.
Adhesives & Binders
Serves as a water-soluble adhesive and binder in paper, textile, wood, and specialty formulation studies where adhesion, film formation, and water interaction are important.
Packaging Films & Coatings
Useful for water-soluble film and coating research where controlled moisture interaction, permeability, film strength, and structural integrity are being evaluated.
Textile & Paper Processing
Functions as a sizing agent and surface treatment polymer in textile and paper studies, supporting fiber interaction, film formation, and surface performance.
Emulsion Polymerization & Stabilization
Acts as a protective colloid in emulsion polymerization and dispersion research, helping support stable emulsions and polymer dispersions.
Solubility & Compatibility
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Soluble in: Water, glycerol, and glycols
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Polymer type: Water-soluble, highly hydrolyzed vinyl alcohol polymer
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Hydrolysis level: 99+% hydrolyzed; higher hydrolysis increases crystallinity and dissolution energy requirements
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Functional behavior: Strong intermolecular hydrogen bonding supports film formation, moisture retention, and structural integrity
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Compatibility: Performance depends on water temperature, polymer concentration, mixing conditions, additives, plasticizers, and formulation pH
Final solution behavior, viscosity, film properties, and coating performance should be evaluated under the intended formulation and processing conditions.
Preparation Tips
- Add PVA gradually to water under agitation to minimize clumping and support uniform wetting.
- Use elevated temperature and sufficient mixing time when preparing solutions of highly hydrolyzed PVA.
- Avoid adding large amounts of powder directly to hot water without agitation, as surface gelation may slow dissolution.
- Evaluate concentration, temperature, mixing speed, and cooling conditions, as these can influence viscosity and film formation.
- Document water temperature, polymer concentration, mixing time, and order of addition for reproducible results.
Handling & Storage
- Exercise normal care when handling this material.
- Store at room temperature.
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use.
- Protect from contamination and unnecessary moisture exposure.
- Use clean, dry tools to prevent contamination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Poly(vinyl alcohol), MW 78,000, 99+% hydrolyzed used for?
This PVA grade is used in research and formulation work involving water-soluble films, coatings, adhesives, hydrogels, textile and paper processing, and emulsion stabilization.
2. What does 99+% hydrolyzed mean?
99+% hydrolyzed indicates a high degree of conversion from polyvinyl acetate to polyvinyl alcohol. Higher hydrolysis generally increases crystallinity and hydrogen bonding, which can require more energy to dissolve.
3. What is the molecular weight of this product?
This Poly(vinyl alcohol) grade has a molecular weight of approximately 78,000.
4. What is the viscosity of this PVA grade?
The viscosity is 28-32 cPs for a 4% aqueous solution.
5. What solvents is this product soluble in?
This PVA grade is soluble in water, glycerol, and glycols. Dissolution behavior depends on temperature, concentration, and mixing conditions.
6. Is this product suitable for biomedical or pharmaceutical use?
This product is suitable for biomedical and pharmaceutical materials research. Suitability for any medical, clinical, diagnostic, implantable, or regulated use must be independently validated for the intended application.
7. How should Poly(vinyl alcohol) be stored?
Store at room temperature, keep the container tightly closed when not in use, and protect from contamination and unnecessary moisture exposure.
Safety & Documentation
Handle with appropriate PPE and standard laboratory practices. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), product specification, and Certificate of Analysis for handling, storage, safety, and lot-specific guidance.
