Chemical Resistance of Plastics: Protection against aggressive Substances

What is meant by Chemical Resistance of Plastics?

The chemical resistance of plastics refers to the ability of a plastic to remain substantially unchanged or un-degraded under the influence of chemicals. Plastics can come into contact with aggressive chemicals, acids, bases, and other substances in various environments. High chemical resistance ensures that the plastic maintains its integrity, strength, and other properties even when it comes into contact with these substances.

Which Plastics are Chemically Resistant?

Some plastics are naturally more chemically resistant than others due to their molecular structure. Chemically resistant plastics include:

• PE (Polyethylene): Resistant to many acids, bases, and solvents.
• PP (Polypropylene): Excellent resistance to many chemicals.
• PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Extremely chemically inert and resistant to almost all chemicals.
• PEEK (Polyetheretherketone): High resistance to aggressive chemicals and solvents.

Why are Plastics Chemically Resistant?

The chemical resistance of plastics depends on their molecular structure. Many plastics consist of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms that can occur in various arrangements and bonds. The molecular structure determines how well the plastic can interact with different chemical substances. Plastics with dense, strong bonds between atoms are often more chemically resistant, as they are less susceptible to chemical attacks.

Conclusion

The chemical resistance of plastics is crucial for many applications where the materials come into contact with aggressive chemicals. The choice of the right plastic depends on the type of chemicals, concentration, temperature, and other environmental conditions. Chemically resistant plastics offer a reliable solution for industries where protection against aggressive substances is essential.