Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 % SO3 | D | D |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
PP 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 water treatment and surface cleaning. PP (Polypropylene) 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
PP 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?
Polypropylene is commonly chosen for tanks, piping, containers and liners because of its combination of chemical resistance, mechanical strength, and cost-effectiveness.
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 PP
Polypropylene resists most acids, alkalis and salt solutions. Concentrated oxidising acids, chlorinated solvents and aromatic hydrocarbons attack it, and it turns brittle below about 0 °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.