Acrylic PMMA Plastic Chemical Compatibility
A CVT series acrylic (PMMA)duckbill check valve
What is acrylic plastic?Acrylic (PMMA, polymethyl methacrylate) is a widely used amorphous thermoplastic polymer. It is best known by its trade names Lucite® and Plexiglas®.
Acrylic is tough, durable, easy to shape and relatively inexpensive. It is especially attractive for its high, optical quality transparency and useful mechanical properties. Acrylic plastic also has excellent resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light and weathering. It does not yellow over time.
Browse the Acrylic Chemical Compatibility Chart Below >>
or
Download the complete Acrylic Chemical Compatibility Chart PDF >>
Acrylic (PMMA) mechanical features
- Good rigidity
- Hard but brittle
- Scratch resistant
- Moderate strength
- Good dimensional stability
- Excellent resistance to weathering
- Excellent resistance to UV (ultraviolet) light
Other useful acrylic (PMMA) features
- Easy to clean
- 100% recyclable
- High bio-compatibility
- Good electrical properties
- High, optical quality transparency
- BPA free alternative to polycarbonate
Acrylic (PMMA) limitations
- Poor impact resistance
- Limited heat resistance
- Limited abrasion resistance
- Limited chemical resistance
Learn more details about the properties of acrylic (PMMA) plastic at Polymethyl methacrylate Properties and Their Values by SpecialChem.
Download the complete Acrylic Chemical Compatibility Chart>>
Acrylic (PMMA) biocompatibility
PMMA is very biocompatible with human tissue. Because it is BPA free, it is also a useful BPA-free alternative to polycarbonate frequently used for making component parts for medical, biological and biopharmaceutical applications.
Acrylic (PMMA) chemical resistanceIn general, acrylics are unaffected by laboratory chemical solutions where water is the solvent.
Get some added insight into chemical compatibility at the ISM chemical compatibility chart page.
Acrylics are generally not affected by
- Alkalis
- Detergents
- Dilute inorganic acids
- Aliphatic hydrocarbons
Acrylics are generally not recommended for use with
- Esters
- Ketones
- Aromatic hydrocarbons
- Chlorinated hydrocarbons
Browse the Acrylic Chemical Compatibility Chart Below >>
or
Download the complete Acrylic Chemical Compatibility Chart PDF >>
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Make sure your components are operational before they enter the field. Have your parts tested and inspected by the experts at ISM.
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Acrylic (PMMA) plastic and these chemical compatibility guidelines
Things to keep in mind when referring to this chemical compatibility guideChemical resistance information is based on data provided by testing done under laboratory conditions. This is usually done using immersion testing on unstressed material samples. Also, immersion test procedures are not generally standardized.
Why lab testing is not enoughIn a lab, it is not possible to cover all the possible variables that might exist in actual operating conditions. This is because so many factors can affect a materials chemical resistance. These include exposure time, chemical impurities, mixing of different chemicals, concentration, extreme temperatures or pressures, temperature and pressure cycling and mechanical stresses.
Stress CrackingCertain combinations of chemical exposure and mechanical stress can also cause environmental stress cracking. Environmental stress cracking is not purely a result of chemical attack. A combination of three factors cause stress cracking: tensile stress, a stress cracking chemical and the inherent susceptibility of a thermoplastic to stress cracking. Stress cracking chemicals include detergents, surfactants, lubricants, oils, ultra-pure water and plating additives such as brighteners and wetting agents.
PVDF resin formulations differDifferences in PVDF resins and components made from them can vary because of variations in processing method, compounding, component dimensions and shapes and other variables. The best way to evaluate and fully test the suitability of a part is to get a sample and test it out in the specific service conditions.
A little about acrylic (PMMA) thermoplastic and its chemical resistanceAcrylic (PMMA) thermoplastic is notable for its clarity, long service life and UV resistance. It is resistant to most detergents, inorganic chemicals, aliphatic hydrocarbons, fats and oils, diluted acids and concentrated alkalis at room temperature. This chart is a guide to PMMA compatibility with a wide range of chemicals found in industrial, commercial and laboratory applications.
- A = Excellent
- B = Good - Minor Effect, slight corrosion or discoloration
- C = Fair - Moderate Effect, not recommended
- D = Severe Effect, not recommended for ANY use
- na - Information not available
A - B - C - D - - - - - - - -
| Chemical | 20°C 68°F | 50°C 122°F |
| Accumulator Acid | D | D |
| Acetaldehyde (Ethanal) | C | D |
| Acetamide | B | D |
| Acetic Acid, anhydrous | D | D |
| Acetate Solvent | D | D |
| Acetic Acid, 50% | D | D |
| Acetic Acid, to 25% | C | D |
| Acetic Acid, 10% | A | na |
| Acetic Acid, 5% (vinegar) | A | na |
| Acetic Acid Amide | C | D |
| Acetic Acid Anhydride | D | D |
| Acetic Acid Butyl Ester | D | D |
| Acetic Acid Chloride | D | D |
| Acetic Acid Ethyl Ester | D | D |
| Acetic Acid Pentyl Ester | A | na |
| Acetic Anhydride | D | D |
| Acetone | D | D |
| Acetonitrile | D | D |
| Acetophenone (1-Phenylethanone) | D | D |
| Acetyl Benzene | D | D |
| Acetyl Chloride | D | D |
| Acetylacetone | D | D |
| Acetylene | A | na |
| Acetylene Tetrachloride | D | D |
| Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA, Aspirin) | D | D |
| Acids, inorganic | C | D |
| Acids, organic | A | na |
| Acrylic Acid | D | D |
| Acrylic Acid Butyl Ester | D | D |
| Acrylic Acid Ethylic Ester | D | D |
| Acrylic Paints | D | D |
| Acrylonitrile | B | D |
| Adipic Acid | B | B |
| Alanine | A | na |
| Alcohol, denatured | C | D |
| Alcohols | C | D |
| Alcohols, Aliphatic | D | D |
| Aldehydes | D | D |
| Alkyl Acetone | D | D |
| Alkyl Chloride | D | D |
| Allyl Alcohol (2-Propene-1-ol) | D | D |
| Allylether Acetate | D | D |
| Alum | B | D |
| Alumina | C | D |
| Aluminum Acetate | C | D |
| Aluminum Chloride, 10% | A | B |
| Aluminum Fluoride | D | D |
| Aluminum Hydroxide | C | C |
| Aluminum Hydroxidacetate | C | D |
| Aluminum Nitrate | C | D |
| Aluminium Oxalate | A | na |
| Aluminum Oxide | C | D |
| Aluminum Salts | A | na |
| Aluminum Sulfate, 10% | A | D |
| Alums (Double Sulfate Salts) | B | na |
| Amines | D | D |
| Amino Acids | B | B |
| Amino Methane | A | na |
| Aminoacetic Acid | C | D |
| Aminobenzene | C | D |
| Ammonia, gas | B | D |
| Ammonia, anhydrous | A | na |
| Ammonia, aqueous 25% | A | D |
| Ammonia-Based Cleaners | A | na |
| Ammonium Acetate | A | na |
| Ammonium Alum | D | D |
| Ammonium Bifluoride | na | na |
| Ammonium Carbonate | D | D |
| Ammonium Chloride (Salmiac), 10% | B | C |
| Ammonium Fluoride | C | C |
| Ammonium Glycolate | A | na |
| Ammonium Hydroxide, 30% | A | B |
| Ammonium Hydroxide, 25% | A | B |
| Ammonium Hydroxide, 5% | A | B |
| Ammonium Nitrate, 10% | A | D |
| Ammonium Oxalate | B | D |
| Ammonium Peroxodisulfate | D | D |
| Ammonium Persulfate | D | D |
| Ammonium Phosphate, 10% | A | D |
| Ammonium Salts | A | na |
| Ammonium Sulfate | B | B |
| Ammonium Sulfide | D | D |
| Ammonium Thiosulfate | na | na |
| Amyl Acetate | C | C |
| Amyl Alcohol | C | D |
| Amyl Chloride | A | C |
| Aniline | D | D |
| Animal Fats and Oils | A | na |
| Anise Seed Oil | B | na |
| Anisole | D | D |
| Anone | D | D |
| Anthracene | A | na |
| Antichlor (Sodium Thiosulfate Pentahydrate) | A | na |
| Antifreeze | A | na |
| Antimonous Chloride | C | D |
| Antimony Trichloride (Antimony Butter) | C | D |
| Antimony Trichloride, aqueous | A | na |
| Aqua Regia | D | D |
| Aromatic Solvents | D | D |
| Arsenic | A | na |
| Arsenic Acid | A | D |
| Asphalt | na | na |
| ASTM #1 Oil | B | D |
| ASTM #3 Oil | A | na |
| Aviation Fuel (100 octane) | D | D |
| Axel Grease | A | na |
| Azotic Acid | D | D |
A - B - C - D - - - - - - - -
Download the complete Acrylic Chemical Compatibility Chart>>
Acrylic, or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is an amorphous thermoplastic polymer renowned for its versatility and distinctive properties. It’s widely acknowledged under trade names like Lucite® and Plexiglas®, recognized for its exceptional optical clarity, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of concepts related to the article you've provided:
Acrylic (PMMA) Basics:
- Definition: A thermoplastic polymer known for its amorphous nature.
- Trade Names: Lucite® and Plexiglas® are commonly associated with PMMA.
- Properties: Toughness, durability, ease of shaping, cost-effectiveness.
- Optical Quality: Known for high transparency without yellowing over time.
- UV Resistance: Exhibits excellent resistance to UV light and weathering.
Mechanical Features:
- Rigidity: Offers good rigidity but is hard and brittle.
- Scratch Resistance: Displays moderate strength and excellent dimensional stability.
- Weather and UV Resistance: Excellent in both aspects.
Other Notable Features:
- Cleaning: Easy to clean and 100% recyclable.
- Biocompatibility: Highly biocompatible, making it suitable for medical applications.
- Electrical Properties: Known for good electrical properties.
- BPA-Free: A viable alternative to polycarbonate, devoid of BPA.
Limitations:
- Impact Resistance: Poor impact resistance.
- Heat and Abrasion Resistance: Limited heat and abrasion resistance.
- Chemical Resistance: Varied effects with different chemicals.
Chemical Compatibility:
- Resistance: Unaffected by certain chemicals like alkalis, detergents, and dilute inorganic acids.
- Not Recommended: Usage with esters, ketones, aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons is discouraged.
- Chemical Compatibility Chart: Provides detailed information on chemical interactions.
Biocompatibility:
- Medical Applications: Suitable for medical, biological, and biopharmaceutical purposes due to its BPA-free nature and compatibility with human tissue.
Chemical Resistance Testing:
- Laboratory Testing: Conducted via immersion tests on unstressed material samples.
- Variables: Numerous factors affect chemical resistance, including exposure time, concentration, temperature, and mechanical stresses.
Stress Cracking and Evaluation:
- Environmental Stress Cracking: Can occur due to a combination of chemical exposure, mechanical stress, and inherent thermoplastic susceptibility.
- Evaluation Method: Testing samples under specific service conditions is the best approach.
Acrylic (PMMA) Thermoplastic and Chemical Resistance:
- Clarity and UV Resistance: Notable for clarity, UV resistance, and resistance to various chemicals found in industrial and laboratory settings.
- Compatibility Ratings: Provided in the chart based on excellent, good, fair, and severe effects of chemicals on PMMA.
This comprehensive overview demonstrates the depth and breadth of knowledge regarding acrylic (PMMA), covering its properties, applications, limitations, and chemical compatibility.
