DOTP (Dioctyl Terephthalate) phthalate-free plasticiser is used to soften PVC and rubber. DOTP delivers superior durability, heat resistance, and flexibility. It is a non-toxic alternative to older phthalates that have associated health risks.
When considering PVC strip curtains, most businesses focus on visibility, durability, energy efficiency, and cost. However, the chemical composition of PVC has a significant impact on environmental responsibility, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability.
At Rayflex, in line with our Spec-Right approach, we believe sustainable industrial products should deliver performance without compromise. Our PVC rolls are manufactured using only DOTP (Dioctyl Terephthalate) plasticisers, we independently and randomly test the compound in our product to ensure REACH compliance and SVHC conformity.
Please see our REACH certification, technical specification and SVHC reports here:
· PVC REACH and compound confirmation report
· PVC Technical Specification – PVC (515) Standard and Polar
Why PVC Strip Curtains Support Sustainability
PVC strip curtains are one of the most effective energy-saving solutions available for industrial and commercial environments. Reducing your energy consumption and impact on the environment.
They create long lasting, flexible barriers between internal and external environments, strip curtains help:
- Reduce heat loss in your buildings during winter.
- Minimise cooling losses in refrigerated and cold store areas.
- Improve temperature stability in internal environments.
- Reduce HVAC energy consumption.
- Lower carbon emissions
- Prevent dust, insects and contaminants entering facilities.
- Improve operational efficiency by maintaining easy access for vehicles and personnel.
PVC strip curtains do not use any energy during operation and reduce energy wastage in building. The product is economical and long-term energy savings are comparatively high – the ROI on the product is almost immediate.
For businesses pursuing sustainability targets, carbon reduction programmes, or ESG objectives, PVC strip curtains remain one of the simplest and most cost-effective upgrades available.
Rayflex also offer a PVC recycle and reuse sustainability initiative which aims to reduce our impact on the planet. We end of life all our waste PVC into new products that do not require virgin compound, such as garden hoses and packaging materials. See our Rayflex > Recycle > Reuse brochure for more information and to see how we can recycle your old PVC strips.
Understanding Plasticisers in PVC
Plasticisers are used to make PVC flexible, durable and to ensure product clarity. Without plasticisers your product will be rigid and cloudy.
Flexible plastics can utilise plasticisers such as:
- DOP (Dioctyl Phthalate)
- DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate)
They are still widely used globally; however, they are banned in the UK and Europe under REACH and SVHC requirements.
DOTP vs DOP / DEHP: What Is the Difference?
DOTP is non-phthalate and 100% recyclable. Other plasticisers cannot make this claim.
Benefits of DOTP Plasticisers
· Regulatory Compliance - DOTP ensures regulatory compliance with REACH.
· Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) Report - DOTP is the only plasticiser that passes SVHC and REACH reports.
· Long-Term Sustainability – Rayflex high quality compounds offer a longer life span.
Excellent Performance
Importantly, DOTP delivers a very high-grade product. Users benefit from:
- Enhanced product lifespan
- Excellent clarity
- Good flexibility
- Durability for demanding environments
- Temperature resistance, hot and cold
- Reliable performance in industrial environments
Rayflex's Commitment to Sustainable PVC Manufacturing
At Rayflex, sustainability is not simply about reducing energy consumption and improvement site maintenance. It is about ensuring high standards of environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance.
Independently Tested REACH Compliance
Rayflex PVC strip curtain materials have undergone independent testing by SGS against:
- European Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 (REACH)
- REACH Annex XVII restrictions.
- Phthalate content requirements
The SGS test report concluded:
"PASS" for European Regulation (EC) No.1907/2006 (REACH) Annex XVII and amendment (EU) 2018/2005 – Phthalate Content.
SVHC Testing – Additional Assurance
Rayflex PVC compounds against European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC).
Independent SGS testing concluded:
"According to the specified scope and analytical techniques, concentrations of tested SVHC are ≤ 0.1% (w/w) in the submitted sample. PASS."
The testing covered 224 substances identified under the SVHC Candidate List applicable at the time of testing.
Sustainable Performance Without Compromise
The challenge for many industrial buyers is balancing sustainability with performance.
Rayflex PVC strip curtains are designed to achieve both.
Our 515 Grade PVC offers:
- Excellent transparency (>85% light transmission)
- Self-extinguishing characteristics
- UV stability
- High durability
- Flexible operation
- Long service life
- Temperature resistance down to -20°C (standard grade)
- Low-temperature performance down to -40°C (polar grade)
Why Rayflex Chooses DOTP
At Rayflex, we believe specification quality matters.
By using DOTP-based PVC compounds supported by independent REACH and SVHC testing, we provide customers with:
· Enhanced sustainability credentials.
· Modern plasticiser technology.
· REACH-compliant materials.
· Independently verified product performance.
· Zero substances of concern.
· Long-term energy-saving benefits.
· Confidence for future procurement requirements.
Our philosophy is simple:
Get the Specification Right. Get the Performance Right. Get the Sustainability Right.
Conclusion
PVC products and screens are one of the most effective solutions available for reducing energy consumption, controlling environments, and improving operational efficiency.
PVC compounds are created equal. Ask your supplier for REACH, Compound Confirmation, Technical Specifications and SVHC testing reports. This will ensure you are compliant with European and UK regulations.
Rayflex Group
Expert Advice / Accurate Specification / Integrated Solutions / Better Results