Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 % | B | D | |
| technical grade | B | D |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
LDPE maintains a consistent rating of B across all 2 tested concentrations (40 %, technical grade) of Acetaldehyde at 20 °C. The fact that the rating does not change with concentration within the tested range simplifies material selection, though the boundary conditions beyond this range remain untested. However, at 50 °C the resistance rating drops, indicating that temperature must be factored into the design. For heated applications, additional testing under actual service conditions is strongly recommended.
Application context
Acetaldehyde is commonly encountered in pharmaceutical manufacturing and coatings and paints. LDPE (Low-density polyethylene) is a thermoplastic typically used for tanks, piping, containers and liners. Since Acetaldehyde is flammable, material selection must also consider the risk of static charge buildup and the need for proper grounding in storage and transfer systems.
Practical recommendation
LDPE is suitable for use with Acetaldehyde under normal conditions, but some minor effects on the material are expected over time. Periodic monitoring for swelling, softening, or weight change is recommended, especially for long-service components. Avoid prolonged exposure at elevated temperatures, as the resistance decreases further at 50 °C. For safety-critical or long-life applications, consider FEP, PTFE, Aluminium instead, which are rated A for this chemical.
Did you know?
In industrial practice, LDPE components exposed to Acetaldehyde are typically inspected for swelling, discoloration, or loss of mechanical strength as early indicators of chemical attack.
Materials rated A or B at 20 °C
Based on the row for 40 %, 20 °C.
- Thermoplastics
- Nylon (PA) B, Acetal (POM) B, PMP B
- Fluoropolymers
- PTFE A, FEP A, ECTFE/ETFE B
- Metals
- SS 316 A, SS 304 A, Aluminium A
About LDPE
Low-density polyethylene has a similar profile to HDPE but is softer and more permeable, so solvents swell it sooner. Continuous service is usually limited to about 60 °C.
Rating scale
- A very good resistance
- B good resistance
- C limited resistance
- D not resistant
- – no data
- K no general statement possible
A rating marked * is an estimate in the source, not a test result. An estimate is given as one value without a temperature.
About this data
The ratings come from the chemical resistance list published by Bürkle GmbH, which compiled them from raw-material manufacturers’ data. They describe laboratory tests on the raw material at 20 °C and 50 °C.
A finished part also sees pressure, mechanical stress, welds and mixtures that a laboratory test does not. Treat the rating as a first filter and test under your own conditions before relying on it.