Products using PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, have become staples in many industrial applications, including piping, tanks, and protective clothing. However, when working with or around potentially hazardous chemicals, it’s important to know what materials can withstand them. We’ll be exploring which common chemicals PVC products can withstand and why they might be right for your industrial needs.

PVC vs. pH: Strength Against Acids

PVC products can generally withstand a variety of acids. Even strong acids, such as hydrochloric, sulfuric, and nitric acids, will not degrade PVC. However, certain concentrated acids may cause degradation over time. One solution that PVC is weak to is oleum, a formulation of sulfur trioxide in sulfuric acid.

Alkaline Resistance: A Basic Property

In addition to acids, PVC products can also resist the effects of many bases or alkalines. This includes products such as caustic soda and potassium hydroxide. This makes them particularly useful for applications that commonly use these types of chemicals, such as in wastewater treatment facilities or chemical processing plants.

Some, but Not All, Solvents

PVC products are known for being highly resistant to many solvents. Ammonia, most alcohols, hydrogen peroxide, and naphtha pose little to no threat to the structural integrity of PVC. This is a major reason why PVC finds favor over polyethylene in many industrial applications.

However, PVC is very weak against organic ketones such as acetone, toluene, and xylene. While methyl and isopropyl alcohol are safe for PVC, benzyl alcohol is highly corrosive. Use extreme caution to keep these chemicals away from PVC, as they can eat through piping with ease.

Mineral Oils

While PVC products are not common in applications involving oils, they do have some resistance to certain types of oils. For example, mineral oils and lubricants are common chemicals PVC products can withstand, but PVC will not perform well in environments containing gasoline or diesel fuel.

Avoid Petroleum Products

Despite their strength against acids, bases, and solvents, PVC products are not advisable for use in applications involving aromatic hydrocarbons and other petroleum-based products. They are not able to withstand the effects of gasoline, diesel, or kerosene. For such applications, consider alternatives like fluorocarbon elastomers or perfluoroelastomers.

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