Lead is an abundant metal which has been exploited since mining began in ancient historical times. In 1998 lead consumption in OECD countries amounted to 5.2 million tonnes (6 million tones worldwide). Lead has the longest history as a stabiliser for PVC. Lead compounds are a cost-effective form of stabiliser used for PVC. Their stabilising effects are excellent and used for PVC products with long service life and required to endure longer fabrication (heating) hours. Use has been decreasing as a result of the Vinyl 2010 substitution commitment;, they now represent only about of total stabilizers used in PVC applications. A number of different lead compounds are used in PVC formulations in order to provide optimum performance in a particular application. For more information, please check Novista product list.
