Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is used in party supplies primarily for stretch bobo/bubble balloons and some durable hanging decorations. It is transparent, elastic, and heavier than latex or BOPP. PVC's environmental profile has led to restrictions in some markets and growing demand for alternatives.
Key Properties
| Composition | Polyvinyl chloride + plasticizers (for flexibility) |
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| Density | 1.3–1.45 g/cm³ (heavier than latex or BOPP) |
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| Transparency | Excellent — crystal clear for bobo/bubble balloon applications |
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| Elasticity | Good stretch with plasticizer; less elastic than latex |
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| Durability | Tear-resistant; reusable multiple times |
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| Temperature range | -10°C to 60°C typical for flexible PVC |
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| Environmental | Not biodegradable; chlorine content complicates incineration; phthalate plasticizer concerns in some markets |
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| Recyclability | Technically recyclable but rarely recycled in practice (identification code 3) |
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Alternatives
| Latex balloons | Biodegradable, lighter, lower cost — the primary alternative for most balloon applications |
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| Foil/BOPP balloons | Lighter, longer float time — alternative for premium and shaped balloons |
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| PET balloons | Clear PET (polyethylene terephthalate) balloons — emerging alternative, better recycling profile |
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Applications
- Bobo/bubble balloons,Primary application — 18"–24" clear stretch balloons for premium events
- LED balloon outer shell,Durable clear outer for LED-insert balloons
- Some hanging decorations,Durable clear or colored decorations for long-term/reusable applications
Compatible Processes
- Heat sealing
- Die-cutting
- Limited printing (surface treatment required)
