At another web site, common whole POPs adhered to HDPE was practically 30 times that of PVC. The researchers assume that differences within the size and form of the polymer molecules can explain why some accumulate extra pollution than others. The fungus Aspergillus fumigatus successfully degrades plasticized PVC. Phanerochaete chrysosporium was grown on PVC in a mineral salt agar. Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Lentinus tigrinus, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus sydowii can successfully degrade PVC.

The mechanical properties improve with the molecular weight rising but decrease with the temperature increasing. The mechanical properties of inflexible PVC (uPVC) are excellent; the elastic modulus can reach 1500–3,000 MPa. Its properties are normally categorized based on inflexible and flexible PVCs.

Weathering degradation of plastics ends in their surface embrittlement and microcracking, yielding microparticles that proceed on in the setting. Also often known as microplastics, these particles act like sponges and soak up persistent organic pollution (POPs) around them. Thus laden with excessive levels of POPs, the microparticles are sometimes ingested by organisms in the biosphere[citation needed].

Degradation during service life, or after careless disposal, is a chemical change that drastically reduces the common molecular weight of the polyvinyl chloride polymer. Since the mechanical integrity of a plastic depends on its excessive average molecular weight, wear and tear inevitably weakens the material.

Temporary components, like roofing covers of the Olympic Stadium, the Water Polo Arena, and the Royal Artillery Barracks, would be deconstructed and a component recycled within the VinyLoop course of. Lead had beforehand been frequently added to PVC to enhance workability and stability. Lead has been shown to leach into drinking water from PVC pipes. However there is proof that three of the polymers (HDPE, LDPE, and PP) consistently soaked up POPs at concentrations an order of magnitude larger than did the remaining two (PVC and PET). After 12 months of publicity, for example, there was a 34-fold distinction in average whole POPs amassed on LDPE in comparison with PET at one location.

Property owners can recycle it by way of nationwide collection depots. The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), for example, after initially rejecting PVC as materials for various momentary venues of the London Olympics 2012, has reviewed its decision and developed a policy for its use.