Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| concentration not stated | C | D |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
PP has limited resistance (C) to Tetrahydrofuran (THF) at 20 °C. This indicates that the chemical has a noticeable effect on the material, which may include visible swelling, softening, or a measurable loss of tensile strength. Use is generally limited to short-term or intermittent contact where full structural integrity is not required. 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
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is commonly encountered in chemical synthesis and coatings and paints. PP (Polypropylene) is a thermoplastic typically used for tanks, piping, containers and liners. Since Tetrahydrofuran (THF) 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
PP has limited resistance to Tetrahydrofuran (THF) and should only be used for short-term or intermittent contact at ambient temperature. The C rating means the material undergoes noticeable changes — swelling, loss of strength, or surface degradation — that make it unsuitable for permanent installations. For prolonged or continuous exposure, Nylon (PA), PETG, Acetal (POM) offer significantly better resistance and are rated A.
Did you know?
When choosing between thermoplastics for Tetrahydrofuran (THF) 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
- Thermoplastics
- Nylon (PA) A, Acetal (POM) A, PETG A
- Fluoropolymers
- PTFE A, FEP A, ECTFE/ETFE B
- 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.