PVC（Polyvinyl chloride) is a polymer formed by polymerizing vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) with initiators such as peroxides and azo compounds or under the action of light and heat according to a free radical polymerization reaction mechanism. Vinyl chloride homopolymer and vinyl chloride copolymer are collectively called vinyl chloride resin.

PVC was once the most widely produced general-purpose plastic in the world and was widely used. There are two types of PVC: rigid (sometimes abbreviated as RPVC) and soft. Rigid polyvinyl chloride is used in construction pipes, doors and windows. It is also used to make plastic bottles, packaging, bank or loyalty cards. Adding plasticizers makes PVC softer and more elastic. It can be used in pipes, cable insulation, flooring, signage, phonograph records, inflatable products and rubber substitutes.