Rating
| Concentration | 20 °C | 50 °C | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| concentration not stated | D | D |
Material comparison at 20 °C
Resistance overview
Polystyrene is not resistant (D) to Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) 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
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is commonly encountered in metal finishing and water treatment. Polystyrene (Polystyrene) is a thermoplastic typically used for tanks, piping, containers and liners. Because Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is classified as corrosive, the choice of containment material is especially critical to prevent leaks, equipment damage, and safety hazards.
Practical recommendation
Polystyrene is not recommended for use with Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA). 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 HDPE, PP, FEP instead, which are rated A for this chemical and offer reliable long-term performance.
Did you know?
When choosing between thermoplastics for Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) 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
- HDPE A, PP A
- Fluoropolymers
- PTFE A, PVDF A, FEP A
- Metals
- SS 316 B, Aluminium A
About Polystyrene
Polystyrene is attacked by most organic solvents, including ketones, esters, aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. It is used for dilute aqueous solutions.
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.