polyvinyl acetate
A vinyl resin, one of the clear, water-white,
thermoplastic synthetic resins produced from its
monomer by emulsion polymerization. Polyvinyl
acetate, abbreviated PVA , has the
advantage over the other resinous adhesives in
that it is available in the form of an emulsion
that is readily diluted with water, is easily
applied, and is safe to use because it contains no
flammable solvents. In addition, there is no need
to use preservatives or fungicides because it does
not deteriorate quickly and is unaffected by mold
or fungi. The emulsion does slowly hydrolyze,
however, and should not be stored for more than
one or two years before use. Freezing also
destroys the emulsion; therefore, precautions must
be taken to avoid exposing it to temperatures near
or below the freezing point. (37 , 198 , 235 )
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