Overview
EVOH (Ethylene-Vinyl Alcohol) is a copolymer engineered for superior barrier performance against oxygen, carbon dioxide, and hydrocarbons. It is synthesized through the hydrolysis of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer, resulting in a material that balances the processability of polyethylene with the barrier properties of polyvinyl alcohol. EVOH is classified as an engineering plastic due to its specialized applications in industries requiring stringent barrier protection. Its versatility allows it to be extruded, co-extruded, or injection-molded, making it a preferred choice for multilayer packaging and industrial components.
Physical and Chemical Properties
EVOH exhibits outstanding gas barrier properties, with oxygen permeability up to 1,000 times lower than polyethylene. Its performance depends on the ethylene content: higher ethylene grades offer better moisture resistance but reduced barrier efficiency. The material is thermally stable up to 190°C but degrades rapidly above this temperature. Chemically, EVOH resists oils, solvents, and aromatics, though prolonged exposure to strong acids or alkalis may cause hydrolysis. Its transparency and glossy surface make it suitable for aesthetic packaging, while its mechanical strength supports structural applications like fuel tanks.
Main Applications
EVOH is predominantly used in food packaging, where it prevents spoilage by blocking oxygen ingress. Common examples include meat trays, dairy containers, and beverage bottles. In the automotive sector, EVOH-lined fuel tanks reduce hydrocarbon emissions by 99% compared to single-layer alternatives. Medical applications leverage EVOH's sterility and barrier qualities for IV bags and pharmaceutical blister packs. Emerging uses include water pipes (to prevent odor permeation) and agricultural films (to extend produce shelf life).
Safety and Storage
EVOH is FDA-compliant for food contact and poses minimal health risks under normal conditions. However, thermal processing (e.g., extrusion) requires ventilation to avoid inhalation of vinyl alcohol vapors. Processors should use antioxidant stabilizers to prevent degradation during high-temperature molding. Storage recommendations include sealing EVOH pellets in moisture-proof bags to prevent hydrolysis. Bulk containers should be kept at <30°C and <50% relative humidity. Reprocessed material must be dried at 80-90°C before reuse to maintain performance.
B2B Procurement Guide
When sourcing EVOH, specify the ethylene content (typically 27-48 mol%), which dictates barrier and moisture resistance. For packaging, grades with 32-44 mol% ethylene offer optimal balance. Automotive applications often require higher ethylene content (44-48 mol%) for flexibility. Verify supplier certifications (e.g., ISO 10993 for medical grades) and request technical datasheets with permeability coefficients. Pricing varies by volume, with discounts available for multi-ton orders. Consider regional suppliers to reduce logistics costs for bulk procurement.
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