In the graph to the right, the circle marks the solubility area for the polymer PVC. (PVC is used to make plumbing pipes).  Use this graph to plot the values for the polar (P) and hydrogen bonding (H) parameters of the solvents listed at the far right to decide whether or not they will dissolve PVC.   Only solvents who's P & H values intersect inside PVC's solubility area will dissolve PVC.

If more than one solvent intersects the circle, check the Material Safety Data Sheets before deciding which solvent to use.

Solvents

Benzene  - P=0.0  H=2.0
Methanol - P=12.3 H=22.3
Ethylene dichloride - P=7.4 H=4.1
Ethanol - P=8.8 H=19.4
Acetone - P=10.4 H=7.0
Methyl chloride - P=6.1 H=3.9
Tetrahydrofuran - P=5.7 H=8.0
Toluene - P=1.4 H=2.0
Xylene - P=1.0 H=3.1
Nitromethane - P=18.8 H=5.1
Methyl ethyl ketone - P=9.0 H=5.1
Dimethylformamide - P=13.7 H=11.3

Indicate your choice by clicking on the name of the solvent you want to use.

(You may print this page to make your plot on paper.)

 

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