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Plastocs and rubbers are frequently used in applications where contact with chemicals, gases, detergents or oils are intended or cannot be avoided. The resistance of the polymer materials to these substances must therefore be known before such an application is considered. So if you are a designer, manufacturer, contractor or a user of polymer materials? Then it is good to know that Kiwa  carries out tests and investigations on plastics and rubbers to measure the effects of several gases and liquids on these materials.

Avoid damage and harm

The extent to which polymers are subjected to attack by chemicals is determined by a number of parameters, related both to the chemical and the polymer involved. Polymers are more susceptible to solvent or chemical attack when under stress and/or strain. Stress can be internal, caused during the manufacturing of the product, or due to externally applied loads. The nature and strength of the chemical will affect the amount of damage. While some dilute chemicals will not attack a polymer, more concentrated solutions can do considerable harm. The extent of chemical attack on a certain polymer is mainly dependent on the chemical structure of the polymer. The effects of chemical exposure are increased at higher temperatures and with longer periods of exposure.

Our experts can help you to investigate the effects of several chemicals, gases, detergents or oils to your polymer materials.

In all cases where it has to be validated that polymeric materials and products are resistant to the service conditions (medium, temperature, pressure, time).

More information

If you need more information in all cases where it has to be validated that polymeric materials and products are resistant to the service conditions (medium, temperature, pressure, time), please contact us at rubber@kiwa.nl.

About Kiwa 

Kiwa has specialized business units that focus on specific market segments, in the Netherlands and internationally. We offer specialist services in areas such as energy and water, fire safety and security, infrastructure, roof and facade advice, sports facilities and training. You can contact these business units for testing, inspection, certification, training and consultancy tailored to your market segment.