In industries such as garment accessories, footwear and bag embellishments, and sports products, CLORURO DE POLIVINILO y silicona are two commonly used materials. They are widely applied in making badges, labels, hangtags, and decorative or functional patches. However, many customers do not fully understand the fundamental differences between these materials, which often leads to mismatched usage, short product lifespan, or frequent after-sales issues.
This article will provide a systematic overview of the core differences, advantages, and suitable applications of PVC and silicone materials.
🟠 What Is PVC?
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a common synthetic plastic material. Due to its low raw material cost, vibrant colors, and high fluidity, it is widely used in mass-production items requiring fast turnaround.
✅ Key Features of PVC:
- Glossy surface with bright, saturated colors—ideal for vibrant patterns or logos.
- Multi-color compatibility allows for rich visual effects.
- High production efficiency: liquid colors flow easily and fill molds quickly.
- Can achieve layered color structures and 3D logo effects.
Limitations:
- Weak cold resistance: can only withstand temperatures as low as -10°C; becomes brittle or breaks easily in cold environments.
- Short lifespan: may discolor or harden within 1–2 years due to aging.
🟢 What Is Silicone?
Silicone is an eco-friendly, high-elasticity material with excellent cold resistance and stability. It is increasingly replacing PVC in outdoor gear, premium sportswear, and environmentally conscious markets.
✅ Key Features of Silicone:
- Matte, non-reflective surface with a soft touch and slight anti-slip quality.
- Up to 6 colors can be used—though not as vibrant as PVC, sufficient for most designs.
- Complex production process: the logo layer is liquid-filled, while the base is solid molded and requires manual layering, resulting in lower production efficiency.
- Can only present a maximum of three color layers—not suitable for highly intricate designs.
- Exceptional cold resistance: withstands temperatures down to -40°C without cracking or deforming.
- High environmental standards: food-grade safety, non-toxic, and skin-friendly.
❗ Why PVC Is Not Recommended for Heat Transfer Labels
Due to its poor thermal stability, PVC is not suitable for heat transfer applications requiring high-temperature pressing. Heat exposure can cause bubbling, warping, or adhesive failure. In contrast, silicone offers superior heat resistance and bonding strength, making it the preferred material for heat transfer labels.
💰 PVC vs. Silicone: Cost Comparison
Due to the difference in material properties and production processes, silicone typically costs 2.5 to 3 times more than PVC.
| Aspecto | CLORURO DE POLIVINILO | Silicone |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Finish | Glossy, vibrant | Matte, anti-slip |
| Color & Layer Detail | Multi-color, layered | Up to 6 colors, max 3 layers |
| Cold Resistance | Down to -10°C | Down to -40°C |
| Production Efficiency | Fast liquid molding | Manual base layering, lower output |
| Environmental Impact | Poor, non-degradable | High, food-grade, eco-friendly |
| Costo | Low | High (2.5–3× of PVC) |
| Heat Transfer Suitability | ❌ Not recommended | ✅ Ideal for heat transfer |
📌 Final Recommendation
- If you need fast delivery, large volumes, and cost-effective solutions, CLORURO DE POLIVINILO is a solid choice.
- If you prioritize durability, eco-friendliness, heat transfer compatibility, y brand quality, silicona is the superior option.
- Para custom heat transfer labels, we strongly recommend using silicone to avoid quality issues during processing or end use.
📩 Currently developing a PVC or silicone product?
We’re here to help with expert guidance and sample development. Share your fabric type, application, and washing requirements, and we’ll recommend the most suitable material and production method—helping you reduce risk and improve product quality.
📣 Have you faced any challenges while using PVC or silicone?
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