What Does
Plastisol Mean?
Plastisol is a polymer comprised of polymer particles, such as polyvinyl chloride, that are dispersed in a plasticizer. Plastisol is considered a thermoplastic because raising its temperature will affect its mechanical properties. The changing viscosity of plastisol under different temperatures makes it easy to be applied as a coating to a variety of substrates for corrosion prevention, among other uses.
Corrosionpedia Explains Plastisol
Plastisol is a thermoplastic. In its original form, it is a liquid. This allows it to be easily applied to many substrates. Then the plastisol is heated to over 300°F (150°C) so that it can cure. Once cured, it is allowed to cool back down to room temperature. When it reaches room temperature it becomes a high-viscosity gel-like substance that is very tough and ductile.
Plastisol became popular during the middle of the 20th century. Since that time it continues to be used in a variety of industries. One popular application of plastisol is as a coating material. As a liquid, it can be easily applied to a substrate. Then, after a heat treatment it can have its viscosity raised to a point where it is no longer a liquid, but still very ductile. The result is a tough, flexible plastisol coating, which is used for corrosion protection, aesthetics and for gripping. Plastisol is also often used as an ink for screen printing onto clothes. It is popular because it does not dry out and can be used with a variety of mesh sizes.