Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| liquid | A | – | |
| gaseous | D | D |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
The resistance of LDPE to Propane is concentration-dependent. Across the 2 tested concentrations (liquid, gaseous), the 20 °C rating ranges from A at lower concentrations to D at higher ones. This means engineers must verify which concentration their process actually involves before relying on a single rating. The rating remains stable between 20 °C and 50 °C, which means this material can also handle moderately elevated process temperatures without additional risk.
Application context
Propane is commonly encountered in cleaning and degreasing and electronics cleaning. LDPE (Low-density polyethylene) is a thermoplastic typically used for tanks, piping, containers and liners. Since Propane 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 not recommended for use with Propane. 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 Nylon (PA), PETG, Acetal (POM) instead, which are rated A for this chemical and offer reliable long-term performance.
Did you know?
When choosing between thermoplastics for Propane service, engineers consider not just the resistance rating but also factors such as permeation rate, creep resistance, and weldability.
Materials rated A or B at 20 °C
Based on the row for gaseous, 20 °C.
- Thermoplastics
- PP B, PVC Rigid A, Nylon (PA) A, Acetal (POM) A, PETG A
- Fluoropolymers
- PTFE A, PVDF A, FEP A, ECTFE/ETFE A
- Elastomers
- Viton (FPM) A, NBR 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.