?EUR??,,????'?????<

PVC is prevalent in cars, toys, housing and numerous consumer products. It is used on playgrounds because it is inexpensive, fairly durable, resilient and moderately slip resistant. It also comes in a variety of colors and insulates equipment from extreme hot or cold temperatures. The main concern with PVC is dioxin, a potent carcinogen produced in the production of PVCs.

In LASN?EUR??,,????'?????< He noted the concerns over dioxin with PVCs, but also polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) when PVC burns, which is a concern, as playgrounds are sometimes the target for malicious mischief. He also noted the leaching of additives used to soften the coating.

?EUR??,,????'?????<

Playworld is replacing its PVC with thermoset polyethylene (PE), which, according to the company, produces no volatile organic compounds or dioxins in its manufacturing, plus it is 100 percent recyclable.

?EUR??,,????'?????<

Mr. Miller described PE-produced products and coatings as tough, durable and an environmentally friendly alternative. He said PE will stay clean longer because it is less porous than PVC, and its textured finish offers slip resistance.