Optimization of thermal degradation performance of plasticized poly(vinyl chloride)-boron composite films using response surface methodology

This work aims to statistically assess the dehydrochlorination of plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (p-PVC) films produced using boron waste sludge, heat stabilizer mixture (Ca-ZnSt(2)), and plasticizer (dioctyl terephthalate). This study also focuses on providing information about the effect of boron waste sludge (BSW), heat stabilizer, and plasticizer amounts on the degradation of the films to enhance the thermal stability of flexible p-PVC formulations. Experiments were designed using the Box-Wilson method. The polyene formation and discoloration caused by the degradation were measured by UV spectroscopy and colorimetry, respectively. These parameters were optimized using the response surface methodology. An analysis of variance was performed to assess statistically significant differences between the parameters on p-PVC degradation by using the Design Expert 13 statistical program. The yellowness index and amount of polyene formed differed among the films, and the film prepared at the midpoint of all parameters was determined to have greater stabilizing efficiency than the others. In this study, an effort has been made to shed light on the improvements in thermal stability in PVC. Results will serve to protect the environment via the data provided to the producers. The use of boron waste will contribute to the environment and the economy.