9.3. Chemical Resistance Tests

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the main purpose of chemical resistance tests?

   Hint

   Think about the importance of material durability.

2. 2.

   Name one type of chemical used in resistance testing.

   Hint

   Recall the examples discussed.

3. 3.

   What do chemical resistance tests measure?

   • Weight only
   • Weight and strength
   • Color changes only

   Hint

   Remember that multiple properties are assessed.

4. 4.

   True or False: Chemical resistance tests are only necessary for thermosetting plastics.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the various plastics used.

5. 5.

   You perform a chemical resistance test on a plastic, and it shows a 20% mass loss after two weeks in a strong acid, but no dimensional change. Discuss the implications for its use in a chemical storage application.

   Hint

   Think about what mass loss signifies.

6. 6.

   If you were to design a new plastic intended for outdoor use, which chemical resistance tests would you include, and why?

   Hint

   Consider the outdoor elements the plastic will face.