Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| concentration not stated | B | C |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
LDPE shows good but limited resistance (B) to Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) at 20 °C. The material can be used in contact with this chemical, but minor effects such as slight swelling or a small reduction in mechanical properties may occur over extended exposure periods. Regular inspection of components in service is advisable. 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
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) is commonly encountered in pharmaceutical manufacturing and chemical synthesis. LDPE (Low-density polyethylene) is a thermoplastic typically used for tanks, piping, containers and liners. Since Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) 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 Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) 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 HDPE, Nylon (PA), FEP instead, which are rated A for this chemical.
Did you know?
Chemical resistance testing according to DIN and ISO standards typically evaluates weight change, dimensional change, and retention of tensile strength after immersion.
Materials rated A or B at 20 °C
- Thermoplastics
- HDPE A, PP B, Nylon (PA) A, Acetal (POM) 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.