Comparison of mechanical and thermal characteristics of PVC and recycled PVC used in window frames

¹ Mohammed V University in Rabat, Material, Energy and Acoustics Team (MEAT), EST Salé, Morocco
² University Hassan II of Casablanca, Laboratory of modeling and simulation of intelligent industrial systems, ENSET Mohammedia, Morocco
³ Technical center of plastic and rubber, Casablanca, Morocco
⁴ IRESEN - Institut de Recherche en Énergie Solaire et Énergies Nouvelles, Maroc
⁵ Higher School of Technology of Fez, U.S.M.B.A, Route d’Imouzzer, BP 2427 Fez, Morocco

^* elhassan.sebbar@usmba.ac.ma
najma.laaroussi@est.um5.ac.ma

Abstract

Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is a major challenge for reducing energy consumption and mitigating environmental impact. As key elements of building envelopes, windows play a crucial role in thermal management, capturing natural light and maintaining interior comfort. However, they also contribute significantly to heat loss from buildings. This article focuses on recent advances in the field of windows, with particular emphasis on the mechanical and thermal characterization of PVC and recycled PVC profiles. The results obtained show that PVC and recycled PVC profiles offer notable mechanical strength and good heat resistance, as evidenced by a softening temperature of 80.55°C and heat reversion percentages in line with standards. Recycled PVC boasts superior dimensional stability with a thermal reversion of 0.5%, suggesting robust performance even in environments subject to temperature fluctuations. However, to achieve optimum performance, particularly in terms of mechanical strength, it is essential to further optimize the formulation and production process, especially for recycled PVC.