Paper

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a thermoplastic polymer derived from vinylidene chloride. Extremely popular for card manufacture (as well as cling film, plastic bottles and piping), this light-weight material can be laminated, printed, hot stamped and embossed and is relatively low cost.

Good medium-term performance

PVC produces colourful photo ID credentials, gift cards, luggage tags and other marketing tools. PVC is highly suitable for short- to medium-term cards in high turnover applications. PVC cards are ideal for applications where cards need to be economical but do not need to be too durable. Interestingly, it self-extinguishes after catching fire.

Environmental issues

However, PVC is rigid and easily cracks and breaks, especially when the material is cold. It has environmental issues, too. It also difficult to recycle and contains the toxic chemical dioxin. When burned, PVC releases hydrochloric acid. PVC does not break down, causing landfill problems. However, PVC cards are available which contain an added chemical that makes them biodegradable, though there are concerns that they release toxins into the soil.

Plastic Identification Code 3.