The recent train derailment in Ohio, which released thousands of pounds of vinyl chloride, highlights the ongoing pollution issues associated with the manufacturing and transportation of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products. PVC is a type of plastic that is widely used in a variety of products, including pipes, flooring, and packaging materials.

Vinyl chloride, the primary building block for PVC, is a toxic and hazardous substance that poses significant health risks to humans and the environment. Exposure to vinyl chloride can cause respiratory issues, liver damage, and cancer. The production and use of PVC have been linked to pollution and environmental degradation, including the release of toxic chemicals during manufacturing, disposal, and incineration.

The Ohio train derailment is just the latest in a series of incidents that have highlighted the risks associated with transporting hazardous materials, including PVC products. In recent years, there have been several high-profile accidents involving trains carrying hazardous materials, including crude oil and other flammable substances.

The pollution associated with PVC production and use has led to growing concern among environmentalists, lawmakers, and consumers. Many companies and organizations are now working to develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to PVC and other hazardous materials.

The recent train derailment in Ohio serves as a stark reminder of the environmental and health risks associated with PVC production and transportation. It highlights the need for greater regulation and oversight of hazardous materials transportation and the urgent need to develop more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to PVC products.

Sustainability: Water-based inks are considered to be more sustainable than plastisol inks because they are made with water and pigments, while plastisol inks are made with PVC resin and plasticizers. PVC is a petroleum-based product that is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down in the environment. Plasticizers, which are added to PVC to make it more flexible, can also be harmful to the environment and human health. In contrast, water-based inks are made with water and pigments, which are considered to be more environmentally friendly. They are also easier to clean up and do not require harsh chemicals.

Long-term usage: Water-based inks tend to have a softer feel and are more breathable than plastisol inks. They are also more durable and can withstand multiple washes without fading. The soft feel and breathability of water-based inks make them more comfortable to wear, especially for clothing that is worn close to the skin. In addition, water-based inks are known for their ability to retain their color and vibrancy even after multiple washes, making them a great choice for clothing that is intended for long-term use. On the other hand, plastisol inks are known to crack and lose their vibrancy over time, making them less suitable for long-term use.

Clean-up and chemical exposure: Cleaning up water-based inks is relatively easy and can be done with water and mild detergents. Plastisol inks, on the other hand, require the use of solvents, which can be harsh and potentially harmful to the environment and human health. This not only can affect the environment but also the workers who are handling these chemicals and solvents.

Washability: Water-based inks are more resistant to fading and can withstand multiple washes without losing their vibrancy. The test shows that the color fastness level of water-based inks is usually 4-5, which is considered as good, while plastisol inks tend to crack and lose their color after multiple washes, with a color fastness level of 2-3 which is considered poor. Plastisol inks usually start to crack and fail after 20-25 washes, while water-based inks can last up to 50 or more washes.

Overall, water-based inks are considered to be more sustainable, durable, and resistant to fading compared to plastisol inks. They are also easier to clean up, do not require harsh chemicals, and do not have a negative impact on the environment and human health, unlike plastisol inks which are derived from petroleum and plasticizers and can be hazardous.

The Future of Custom apparel, after the Ohio Train Derailment

Waterbased vs Plastisol