Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 % SO3 | D | D |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
LDPE is not resistant (D) to Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid) at 10 % SO3 and should not be used in direct contact. The chemical is expected to cause rapid degradation, which can include dissolution, cracking, severe swelling, or complete structural failure of the material.
Application context
Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid) is commonly encountered in laboratory work and chemical processing. LDPE (Low-density polyethylene) is a thermoplastic typically used for tanks, piping, containers and liners. Because Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid) is classified as corrosive, the choice of containment material is especially critical to prevent leaks, equipment damage, and safety hazards.
Practical recommendation
LDPE is not recommended for use with Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid). The D rating indicates that the material will suffer rapid and severe degradation, which may include cracking, dissolution, severe swelling, or complete structural failure. Using this combination risks equipment damage, leaks, and potential safety incidents. Consider using FEP, PTFE, Viton (FPM) instead, which are rated A for this chemical and offer reliable long-term performance.
Did you know?
Temperature is often the deciding factor when selecting materials for Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid): even materials rated A at 20 °C may lose performance at elevated temperatures.
Materials rated A or B at 20 °C
Based on the row for 10 % SO3, 20 °C.
- Fluoropolymers
- PTFE A, FEP A
- Elastomers
- Viton (FPM) A
- 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.