EVA

material

Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is a flexible thermoplastic copolymer known for its rubber-like elasticity, clarity, and excellent low-temperature performance.

In Simple Terms

EVA is a soft, flexible plastic made by combining ethylene and vinyl acetate. The more vinyl acetate content, the more rubber-like and flexible the material becomes. It's commonly used in applications requiring flexibility, clarity, and good adhesion properties.

Why It Matters

EVA's unique combination of flexibility, transparency, and processability makes it essential for numerous applications. In resin trading, EVA grades are differentiated by vinyl acetate content and melt flow rate, directly affecting pricing and suitability for specific end uses.

Technical Details

EVA copolymers typically contain 10-40% vinyl acetate by weight. Higher VA content increases flexibility and adhesive properties but reduces crystallinity and tensile strength. EVA exhibits excellent chemical resistance, UV stability, and maintains flexibility at low temperatures down to -70°C. Processing temperatures range from 160-180°C.

Real-World Examples

Hot melt adhesive manufacturing

EVA with 28% vinyl acetate content is commonly traded for hot melt adhesive applications due to its excellent adhesion and flexibility properties.

Flexible film extrusion

Low VA content EVA (12-18%) is specified for agricultural films where clarity and puncture resistance are required while maintaining flexibility.

Foam sheet production

EVA grades with specific melt flow rates are selected for foam applications in footwear and packaging, where closed-cell structure and cushioning properties are critical.