What is "plasticizer"

n. Any of various substances added to a material (such as plastic or concrete) in order to make it more pliable.

n. a substance added to plastics or other materials to make them more pliable [syn: plasticiser]

Plasticizers (UK: plasticisers) or dispersants are additives that increase the plasticity or fluidity of a material. The dominant applications are for plastics, especially polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The properties of other materials are also improved when blended with plasticizers including concrete, clays, and related products. According to 2014 data, the total global market for plasticizers was 8.4 million metric tonnes.