Answer: Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) is a thermoplastic derived from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) through a chlorination process that enhances its heat and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for demanding applications like hot water piping and industrial systems. The origins of CPVC trace back to the accidental discovery of PVC in the 19th century. In 1838, French chemist Henri Victor Regnault observed a white solid forming in a flask of vinyl chloride gas exposed to sunlight, and in 1872, German chemist Eugen Baumann rediscovered PVC under similar conditions. However, early PVC was brittle and lacked practical applications, delaying its commercial development until the 20th century.
The pivotal moment for CPVC came in the 1950s when researchers at B.F. Goodrich developed a chlorination process to improve PVC’s thermal stability. By increasing the chlorine content, CPVC could withstand temperatures up to 200°F, compared to PVC’s 140°F, unlocking its potential for hot water distribution and industrial uses. The Lubrizol Corporation licensed this technology and introduced CPVC pipes in 1959, marking the start of commercial production. By the 1960s, CPVC gained traction in residential and commercial plumbing, fire sprinkler systems, and chemical processing due to its durability, resistance to corrosion, and cost-effectiveness compared to metal alternatives like copper or steel.