Calcium-based stabilisers (including Ca-Zn ones) are used as an alternative to lead-based stabilisers; following the engagement of the industry to phase-out lead stabilisers in EU-27 by 2015 as agreed in the Vinyl 2010 Voluntary Commitment. They are now largely used in wires and pipes, in window and technical profiles (also foamed ones), and in any type of pipes (such as soil and sewer pipes, foam core pipes, pressure pipes, corrugated pipes, land drainage pipes and cable ducting) as well as the corresponding fittings.
With modern designed stabilisers, it is possible to switch from lead to calcium-based stabilisation without making changes to processing machinery such as extrusion screws and tools. Calcium-based stabilisers are available in different physical forms like powder, granules, pastilles or flakes.
Calcium-based stabilisers have also been introduced in PVC rigid calendering film production when improved organoleptics characteristics are required, for instance as alternative to Tin mercaptides in transparent food packaging application or as alternative to Tin carboxylates in PVC blown films shrinkable and for candy wrap.