Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 % | A | A | |
| concentration not stated | C | – |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
The resistance of Viton (FPM) to Propionic Acid is concentration-dependent. Across the 2 tested concentrations (50 %), the 20 °C rating ranges from A at lower concentrations to C 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
Propionic Acid is commonly encountered in laboratory work and chemical processing. Viton (FPM) (Fluoroelastomer (FKM/FPM)) is an elastomer typically used for seals, O-rings, hoses and flexible connections. Because Propionic Acid is classified as corrosive, the choice of containment material is especially critical to prevent leaks, equipment damage, and safety hazards.
Practical recommendation
Viton (FPM) can be used with confidence for Propionic Acid containment and handling. The A rating indicates that the material shows no significant change in weight, dimensions, or mechanical properties after prolonged contact under test conditions. This holds true at both 20 °C and 50 °C, giving a good safety margin for typical process environments.
Did you know?
The ratings shown here apply to pure Propionic Acid in contact with the base elastomer. In real-world applications, additives, pigments, and fillers in the material can shift resistance in either direction.
Materials rated A or B at 20 °C
Based on the row for 50 %, 20 °C.
- Thermoplastics
- HDPE A, PP A, PVC Rigid A, LDPE A
- Fluoropolymers
- PTFE A, PVDF A, FEP A
- Metals
- SS 316 A, SS 304 A, Aluminium A
About Viton (FPM)
Fluoroelastomer (Viton, FKM/FPM) resists fuels, oils and many acids. Ketones, esters, amines and hot water or steam attack it.
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.