Maya Ellison
Plastic is a versatile material used in a wide range of applications, from cookware to industrial parts. However, not all plastics are created equal when it comes to their resistance to corrosive materials. Some plastics are highly resistant to corrosive chemicals, while others will deteriorate or even dissolve when exposed to certain substances. The best plastic for containing corrosive materials will depend on the specific chemicals involved, their concentration, and the storage temperature. For example, PTFE, also known as Teflon, is a popular plastic with high chemical, thermal, and electrical resistance, making it ideal for cookware. On the other hand, Kynar, a UV-resistant plastic, is used in lithium-ion batteries and artificial membranes in biomedical science.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic corrosion | Unlike metal, plastic does not rust when it comes into contact with corrosive products. Instead, it deteriorates. Some plastics even dissolve when they come into contact with certain solvents. |
| Plastic chemical resistance | The term chemical resistance refers to a material’s capacity to withstand exposure to corrosive agents over a certain period of time while maintaining its properties. A plastic with high chemical resistance will be practically inert when exposed to corrosive chemicals. |
| Corrosion-resistant plastics | Kynar, Extren, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Ultra-High Molecular Weight (UHMW), Polypropylene, PTFE, PVC, Corzan CPVC |
| Plastic additives | Some plastics contain hazardous metal-based additives, such as arsenic, cadmium, chromium(VI), and lead. |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic doesn't rust, but it can deteriorate when it comes into contact with corrosive chemicals
- Some plastics even dissolve when exposed to certain solvents
- When choosing a plastic container, consider the type of chemical involved, its concentration, and storage temperature?
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a corrosion-resistant plastic with a high working temperature range
- Kynar, a UV-resistant plastic, is used in lithium-ion batteries and artificial membranes
Plastic doesn't rust, but it can deteriorate when it comes into contact with corrosive chemicals
When selecting a plastic product, it is crucial to consider the specific corrosive agents it will be exposed to, as different plastics interact with different chemicals in various ways. Some plastics may resist corrosion from acids but melt when in contact with solvents. For instance, while Extren®, a corrosion-resistant plastic, is suitable for applications where conventional construction materials are not economically viable, it may not be the best choice for holding extremely corrosive materials.
To ensure the right plastic is chosen, it is essential to review the technical information and test materials for the specific application. This is particularly important when storing liquids, especially acids and chemicals, as they can be highly corrosive. By choosing a plastic with high chemical resistance, such as TIVAR® 88, which is inert to corrosive chemicals, the risk of deterioration is minimised.
Additionally, the care and storage of plastic items play a significant role in preventing deterioration. Traditional display and storage methods can accelerate the breakdown of plastics, and exposure to heat and flame can cause softening, distortion, melting, or charring. It is also important to avoid contact with certain solvents and abrasive and chemical cleaners, as these can promote deterioration and chemical damage.
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Some plastics even dissolve when exposed to certain solvents
Plastic is a general term that encompasses a wide range of materials with distinct properties. When discussing corrosive chemicals and plastics, it is crucial to select a plastic that is compatible with the specific chemical it will be exposed to. The chemical resistance of a plastic refers to its ability to withstand corrosive agents without deteriorating.
Some plastics can dissolve when exposed to certain solvents. The solubility of plastics depends on their structure and the type of solvent. Amorphous plastics, such as polystyrene and polycarbonate, are more soluble in common organic solvents. On the other hand, highly crystalline plastics like nylons and polyolefins are less likely to dissolve.
Fluorine-based and chlorine-based solvents have been commonly used to dissolve plastics. However, due to environmental concerns, regulations on these solvents are becoming stricter. As a result, alternative solvent compositions, such as those using bromohydrocarbon compounds like isopropyl bromide (IPB) and n-propyl bromide (NPB), are being explored.
When choosing a plastic to contain corrosive materials, it is important to consider the specific chemical, its concentration, and the storage temperature. Some plastics, such as Kynar®, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), UHMW, Polypropylene, PTFE, and PVC, are known for their corrosion resistance and are used in various industrial applications. Additionally, Corzan CPVC is a high-heat, corrosion-resistant chlorinated polyvinyl chloride suitable for applications where high temperatures are a concern.
Overall, the key to successfully containing corrosive materials in plastics is to select the appropriate plastic for the specific chemical and environmental conditions it will encounter.
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When choosing a plastic container, consider the type of chemical involved, its concentration, and storage temperature
When choosing a plastic container, it is crucial to consider the type of chemical involved, its concentration, and the storage temperature. These factors will determine the container's durability and safety.
Firstly, the type of chemical involved is important because different plastics have varying levels of chemical resistance. For example, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is suitable for oils, alcohols, and non-solvent-based chemicals, while Polypropylene (PP) offers excellent chemical resistance and can withstand higher temperatures, making it ideal for containers that need to be autoclaved. Fluorinated polyethylene/polypropylene is specifically designed to enhance barrier properties and chemical resistance against solvents and hydrocarbons. Therefore, understanding the chemical composition of the substance to be stored is essential for selecting the appropriate plastic container.
Secondly, the concentration of the chemical is a critical factor. Some plastics may react differently to highly concentrated substances. For instance, while Polypropylene (PP) works well with alkaline solutions, it will break down when exposed to concentrated acids like Benzene. Understanding the concentration of the chemical will help in selecting a plastic container that can safely withstand the substance without deteriorating.
Thirdly, storage temperature plays a vital role in choosing a plastic container. Different plastics have varying temperature limitations. Polypropylene containers, for instance, have a melting point between 240-260° Fahrenheit, which sets their temperature limitation. On the other hand, PET containers are suitable for cold foods but can leach contaminants into foods when exposed to high temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to consider the storage temperature when selecting a plastic container to ensure it can safely withstand the required temperature range.
Additionally, it is worth noting that plastic containers offer advantages such as breathability, flexibility, and resistance to breakage. They are also relatively cheap, structurally strong, and suitable for long-term storage. However, some plastics may not hold up well against prolonged exposure to natural sunlight and extreme temperatures, so choosing the right plastic based on the chemical and temperature considerations is crucial.
In conclusion, when choosing a plastic container, carefully consider the type of chemical, its concentration, and the storage temperature. These factors will help determine the most suitable plastic material that can safely contain the substance without deterioration or safety hazards.
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High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a corrosion-resistant plastic with a high working temperature range
When choosing a plastic to contain corrosive materials, it is important to select a plastic that is resistant to the chemical it is meant to store. This is because plastic does not "rust" like metal does, but it deteriorates when it comes into contact with certain corrosive agents.
The density of HDPE ranges from 0.93 to 0.97 g, or 930 to 970 kg/m3, which is only marginally higher than LDPE (low-density polyethylene). However, its linear structure means it has little branching, resulting in stronger intermolecular forces and tensile strength than LDPE. This gives HDPE a higher specific strength, making it ideal for applications that require durability and resistance.
HDPE is used in a wide variety of applications, including plastic bottles, food storage containers, cutting boards, detergent bottles, milk jugs, geomembranes, plastic lumber, piping, and chemical drums. It is also used in the agriculture and farming industries for irrigation systems, livestock enclosures, and equipment panels. In the construction and infrastructure industries, HDPE is used in protective barriers, ground protection mats, and underground piping systems. Additionally, HDPE is easily recyclable, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
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Kynar, a UV-resistant plastic, is used in lithium-ion batteries and artificial membranes
Kynar, a UV-resistant plastic, is used in a variety of applications. Its chemical inertness and resistance to solvents, acids, and hydrocarbons make it a versatile material. One of its notable applications is in lithium-ion batteries, where it serves as an ideal coating. Kynar, also known as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), is a highly stable binder resin that can withstand extreme conditions. Its high adhesion, low binder swelling, and high voltage stability make it a preferred choice for battery manufacturers.
Kynar's properties also extend to its use in artificial membranes, particularly in the field of biomedical sciences. In this context, PVDF membranes are used for immunoblotting, where proteins are transferred using electricity. The membranes' resistance to solvents allows for easy stripping and reuse, making them a valuable tool for studying proteins.
The versatility of Kynar goes beyond batteries and biomedical applications. It is also used as an insulator, providing superior performance compared to commonly used polymers. Kynar-insulated wires can withstand flames and have a higher burning point of 177 degrees Celsius. This makes them a safer option in various electrical applications.
Additionally, Kynar finds utility in the storage of corrosive chemicals. Tanks lined with Kynar are specifically used to store substances like chlorine, halogens, and high-strength acids. The plastic's resistance to these corrosive materials ensures the safe containment of such hazardous substances.
The application of Kynar in lithium-ion batteries, artificial membranes, and chemical storage showcases its adaptability and importance in addressing specific challenges across different industries. Its unique properties, including UV resistance, chemical inertness, and stability, make it a valuable material in the development of innovative solutions.
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Frequently asked questions
Corrosive materials are liquids, usually acids and chemicals, that can cause deterioration in the material they are stored in.
Unlike metals, plastic does not rust when it comes into contact with corrosive materials. Instead, it deteriorates and can even dissolve. Fine plastic particles may also detach and contaminate the liquid.
There are several plastics that are resistant to corrosive materials, including Kynar, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Ultra-High Molecular Weight (UHMW), Polypropylene, PTFE (Teflon), and PVC.
