Difference Between Tarpaulin and PVC

In the world of materials used for protective covers and various industrial applications, two commonly mentioned terms are "tarpaulin" and "PVC" (Polyvinyl Chloride). Both are known for their durability and versatility, but they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different uses. Understanding the differences between these two materials is crucial for selecting the appropriate one for specific tasks, whether it's for outdoor coverings, tents, or even construction projects. This article will explore the key differences between tarpaulin and PVC, comparing their material composition, uses, benefits, and limitations.

1. Material Composition

• Tarpaulin: Tarpaulin, often referred to as "tarp," is a large sheet of strong, flexible material used for protecting objects or covering outdoor spaces. Traditional tarpaulins are made from canvas, a tightly woven fabric, which is then treated to make it waterproof and weather-resistant. Modern tarps, however, are often made from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), which are synthetic fibers that offer superior resistance to weather conditions, such as UV rays, water, and mold.
• PVC: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a synthetic plastic polymer that is widely used in a variety of applications, from plumbing pipes to flooring and protective coverings. PVC is produced by polymerizing vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), which gives it excellent strength, flexibility, and resistance to environmental factors like chemicals, heat, and abrasion. PVC material comes in different forms, including rigid and flexible versions. For covering applications, flexible PVC sheets are typically used, often combined with other materials like polyester mesh for added strength.

2. Durability and Strength

• Tarpaulin: The durability of a tarpaulin depends on the type of material used. Traditional canvas tarps are known for their strength and tear resistance but are heavier and less resistant to water unless treated with additional coatings or chemicals. Modern tarps made from polyethylene or polypropylene are lighter and more resistant to tearing, though they may not be as robust as their canvas counterparts when subjected to extreme conditions. Polyethylene tarps, for example, are highly resistant to moisture and are generally UV treated to prevent degradation under prolonged sun exposure. However, they may not offer the same long-term durability as PVC when it comes to extreme environmental stress.
• PVC: PVC is known for its impressive durability and strength. It is highly resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and UV radiation, making it suitable for harsh outdoor environments. PVC is particularly valued for its resistance to water and extreme weather conditions, including high heat and freezing temperatures. Flexible PVC is also strong and can withstand significant wear and tear, which makes it an excellent choice for applications like tarpaulins for commercial or industrial use, where durability and toughness are critical.

3. Water Resistance and Waterproofing

• Tarpaulin: Tarpaulins are primarily valued for their water-resistant properties. Polyethylene tarps are waterproof, providing protection from rain, snow, and moisture. However, traditional canvas tarps, although water-resistant when treated with coatings like wax or PVC, may absorb water if the coating wears off over time. For optimal waterproofing, modern polyethylene tarps or those with PVC coatings are preferred in environments where moisture protection is essential.
• PVC: PVC is inherently waterproof due to its plastic nature, making it highly effective for applications requiring a high level of moisture resistance. PVC-coated materials are completely impervious to water, offering superior protection in outdoor environments where rain or water exposure is frequent. The waterproofing properties of PVC make it a preferred choice for covers, tents, and other protective materials that must withstand prolonged exposure to moisture.

4. Weight and Flexibility

• Tarpaulin: Tarpaulins made from polyethylene or polypropylene are typically lightweight and flexible, making them easy to handle, fold, and store. They are more portable than heavier materials, and their flexibility allows them to cover a wide range of objects or areas. However, canvas tarps, while stronger, tend to be heavier and less flexible than their synthetic counterparts. This can make them more cumbersome to transport and use, especially for large applications.
• PVC: PVC is a strong yet flexible material, but when used in large sheets or thick coatings, it can be heavier than polyethylene-based tarpaulins. However, PVC’s flexibility is advantageous in many applications, as it can be molded or shaped to cover various structures. It is also available in varying thicknesses, allowing for greater control over its weight and flexibility. For example, thin PVC tarps are lightweight and easy to manage, while thicker ones offer more strength and durability but may be more challenging to handle.

5. UV Resistance and Weathering

• Tarpaulin: Polyethylene tarps are often UV treated to protect against the sun’s harmful rays, which can degrade materials over time. These UV-resistant coatings help extend the life of the tarp by preventing fading, cracking, and brittleness caused by prolonged sun exposure. Canvas tarps, especially those that are not treated, tend to degrade faster when exposed to UV radiation, although they may perform well in shaded or low-sun environments.
• PVC: PVC is highly resistant to UV radiation and environmental degradation. It maintains its color and strength over extended periods of exposure to sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor use in all kinds of weather. PVC-coated tarps are particularly durable and can be used for a variety of outdoor applications, such as construction site coverings, where long-term exposure to UV light and harsh conditions is common.

6. Environmental Impact

• Tarpaulin: One of the main concerns with modern tarpaulins, particularly those made from polyethylene, is their environmental impact. Polyethylene and polypropylene are derived from petroleum-based products, and their disposal can be problematic as they do not break down easily in landfills. Some eco-friendly alternatives are being developed, such as biodegradable tarps, but these options are not yet widespread.
• PVC: PVC, like polyethylene, is a synthetic plastic, and its environmental impact is a significant consideration. The production of PVC involves the use of toxic chemicals, and when disposed of, it can release harmful substances into the environment. Recycling PVC can be difficult, and while some PVC materials are recyclable, the process is not always widely available. Additionally, the plasticizers used to make PVC flexible can leach out into the environment over time. Efforts to make PVC production and disposal more sustainable are ongoing but still face many challenges.

7. Common Applications

• Tarpaulin: Tarpaulins are commonly used for temporary covers and protective sheets in a wide variety of settings. They are used in construction sites, for outdoor storage, as covers for vehicles, and for camping or outdoor activities. They are also used for agricultural purposes, as protective covers for crops, and as floor coverings in industrial settings.
• PVC: PVC, due to its strength, flexibility, and waterproofing properties, is used in a wide range of industries. It is used in protective coverings for trucks, tents, awnings, and large equipment. PVC is also used for medical applications, electrical insulation, and in the production of flooring and piping.

While both tarpaulin and PVC are valuable materials known for their durability, strength, and resistance to environmental factors, they are suited to different needs and applications. Tarpaulins, particularly those made from polyethylene or polypropylene, offer lightweight, flexible, and affordable solutions for general-purpose covering. However, PVC offers superior strength, waterproofing, and long-term durability, especially in harsh or industrial environments. Ultimately, the choice between tarpaulin and PVC will depend on the specific requirements of the task at hand, including factors like weight, flexibility, environmental exposure, and cost.