Improving thermal stability and processability of poly(vinyl chloride) via methanesulfonic acid‐promoted suspension polymerization

Abstract This study explores the effect of methanesulfonic acid (MSA) as a promoter in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) suspension polymerization. Using dimyristyl peroxydicarbonate (MYPC) as an initiator, the promoted PVC (cokPVC) was synthesized and compared with nonpromoted PVC (tPVC). Results indicate that cokPVC exhibits enhanced processability, shorter fusion time, and higher thermal stability, as demonstrated by Brabender plastograph analysis. Morphological studies confirm reduced structural defects and increased porosity, improving heat transfer and plasticizer diffusion. Thermal analysis (TGA, DTG) further supports the improved stability of cokPVC, with a higher onset degradation temperature and reduced discoloration. These findings highlight MSA's potential as an efficient promoter for high‐performance PVC production. Highlights Methanesulfonic acid enhances PVC's thermal stability and processability. Promoted PVC shows fewer structural defects and lower labile chlorine content. Improved fusion efficiency was observed in PVC synthesized under promoted conditions. Thermal and UV analyses confirm reduced degradation and discoloration in cokPVC.