White particles or powder like substance. Soluble in water or only capable of swelling. Resistant to mineral oils, fats, lubricants, and most organic solvents. Has hygroscopicity. It does not melt when heated and undergoes dehydration decomposition at around 150 ℃, resulting in a yellow color. Polyvinyl alcohol degrades slowly at 100 ℃ and rapidly at 200 ℃; Polyvinyl alcohol is light stable. Degradation in strong acids, softening or dissolving in weak acids and bases. Contact with strong oxidants can cause combustion and explosion. Dust and air can form explosive mixtures. The degree of polymerization and alcoholysis are the two major factors that determine its physical properties.

Used as a dispersant and protective colloid for the polymerization of vinyl chloride, it can also be used to manufacture polyvinyl acetal and vinylon fibers. Used as adhesive for metals, rubber, leather, binding materials, fabric sizing agents, etc.