Organic solvents attack most plastics and elastomers. Choosing the wrong material leads to swelling, cracking, or dissolution. This chart helps you select materials for solvent contact applications.
A = Excellent B = Good C = Limited D = Not Recommended
PTFE and FEP are rated A for acetone. HDPE and PP are also rated A. PVDF is rated B (good). Viton is rated D (not recommended) — it swells rapidly in ketone solvents. For acetone applications, avoid Viton, NBR, and PVC.
Can any plastic withstand toluene?
PTFE, FEP, and PVDF are all rated A for toluene. HDPE is rated C (limited) and PP is rated B. Most other plastics including PVC, polycarbonate, and polystyrene dissolve or crack in toluene.
