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Polyvinyl alcohol is a synthetic resin that is prepared by polymerization of vinyl acetate, followed by partial hydrolysis of the resulting ester in the presence of an alkaline catalyst. The number of acetate groups in polyvinyl alcohol is determined by the degree of hydrolysis (86.5–89.0% hydrolysis for this food additive specification).

Polyvinyl alcohol has excellent film forming, emulsifying, and adhesive properties. It is also resistant to oil, grease and solvent. It is odorless and nontoxic. It has high tensile strength, flexibility, as well as high oxygen and aroma barrier. However these properties are dependent on humidity, in other words, with higher humidity more water is absorbed.