The Comprehensive Guide of PVC leather

For quite a while now the term faux has floated around and is the new hot word in fashion. Faux leather was never as extensively acclaimed as it is now; from fashion clothing to accessories, decoration, and furnishings.

Faux leather or PVC leather is synthetic leather that is soft to touch and is durable like genuine leather. The article below gives an overview of PVC leather.

Continue reading to get familiar with it.

1.What is PVC leather?

PVC leather is a PVC-based synthetic leather that is used as a substitute for genuine leather. It is also known as Polyvinyl Chloride leather. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a resin that is used as a raw material in the production of PVC synthetic leather.

PVC leather material is the first type of artificial leather. It was synthesized in the 1920s to meet the increased demand for leather for various purposes. It is also known as the “First Generation of Artificial Leather”. It is economical and durable.

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2. How is PVC leather made?

PVC faux leather is chemically synthetic leather. The polymeric solution for PVC synthetic material is composed of PVC resin, stabilizers, plasticizers, extenders, fillers, lubricants, flame retardant agents, colorants, and other additives.

Lubricants and plasticizers are added to make it flexible and soft. The polymeric solution is coated on the base material, which is typically cotton, polyester, or nylon.

In the extrusion step, the polymer solution is mixed with a resin and coated on the previously prepared thin layer of PVC leather by passing through the oven. The baking is done to form a second-thick layer of PVC synthetic leather.

In the next step, the paper layer is peeled off and a cotton-polyester layer is added to give a more natural look to faux leather.

After this step, PVC leather material is passed through textured rollers to give it a shiny texture. In this way, PVC faux leather is made in manufacturing factories.

3. What is the difference between PVC and PU leather?

PVC and PU leather are the two most common types of faux leather. PVC stands for Polyvinyl chloride leather and PU stands for Polyurethane leather. They differ on the basis of their composition, structure, durability, and breathability.

• Composition – The raw material used in the manufacturing process of PVC faux leather is PVC resin. While PU faux leather is PU resin.
• Structure – PVC leather material is coated with more layers, making it more durable to stand extreme conditions such as heat, cold, etc. While the number of layers in PU leather material is much lesser as compared to PVC leather. The purpose of these layers is to give flexibility to faux leather.
• Durability – PVC leather is more durable than PU leather. PVC leather has more layers than PU leather, making it stronger and more resistant to extreme conditions.
• Breathability – PVC leather is less breathable due to its structure. On other hand, PU leather has more pores on its surface, making it more breathable.

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4.Is PVC leather real leather? Is PVC more durable?

No, PVC leather is not real leather. It is a chemically synthesized artificial leather, having realistic leather-like qualities and features.

Real leather is obtained from animals and is expensive. So, an alternative to real leather is made which is affordable. Artificial leathers are manufactured and processed in a way that gives a natural leather-like look and texture.

Real leather is a genuine piece of leather and it is perfect in its quality and features.

Real leather is more durable and stronger than PVC leather. But It is substituted with faux leather to meet the increasing demands of the market and to make pocket-friendly leather that can be afforded by everyone.

5.Does PVC leather peel?

No, PVC leather does not peel. It is durable as well as economical. The peeling strength of PVC leather is different from PU leather.

PVC leather is made from polyvinyl chloride and this polyvinyl chloride resin is coated on polyester or nylon material, making it resistant to rub or abrasion.

The baking step in PVC synthetic leather manufacturing process makes artificial leather more efficient and stronger.  PVC leather material becomes anti-rub and anti-abrasion. It does not peel easily. Moreover, it is resistant to stains, making it a good choice for different purposes.

6.Is PVC leather safe?

The processing of PVC leather is not eco as it adds toxins to the environment. It is recognized to be potentially harmful to your health.

Such harmful by-products of the PVC manufacturing process are dangerous for the environment as well as for your health.

But one of the most dominant advantages of faux leather is that it is synthesized artificially using PVC and other chemicals.

There is no need to harm animals as a source of leather for its production like for genuine leather. That’s why it is preferred over real/genuine leather.

7.Is PVC leather waterproof?

Yes, PVC synthetic leather is waterproof.

• The multi-layer structure of PVC faux leather makes it more durable and resistant to water.
• It has no pores at its surface. As a result, it does not absorb water or moisture and prevents faux leather from cracking or staining.
• This water-repelling property of PVC makes it a perfect choice for clothing purposes.
• It can withstand extreme weather conditions as well.

8.How long does PVC leather last?

PVC leather can last for 10-15 years depending on the quality of PVC material and manufacturing process.

The life of faux leather mainly depends on the way we use it. It is resistant to flame, abrasion, and rub so it cannot be damaged easily.

Uses of PVC Leather

PVC leather is synthetic leather that can be processed in a variety of styles, shapes, and designs.

various purposes, including automobile seats, coverings for chairs, and sofa.

clothing purposes such as PVC skirts, jackets, and pants.

shoes, bags, wallets, etc. 

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