Use this chemical resistance chart to identify which elastomers stand up to specific chemicals. Download it for quick reference. Our updated Chemical Resistance List provides a concise overview of good and poor material compatibility pairings and links to deeper chemical compatibility chart resources for detailed guidance.

Good and poor material compatibility pairings for specific chemicals

The chart helps you quickly spot favorable pairings—such as PTFE with strong acids, FKM with many hydrocarbons, and EPDM with water, steam, brake fluids, and certain ketones—and it flags mismatches that risk swelling, softening, or failure. For example, the EPDM chemical resistance profile is generally strong against polar substances (like alcohols and glycols) but weak with aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons and most oils. Conversely, nitrile (NBR) is often suitable for oils and fuels but performs poorly with strong oxidizers. These pairings are summarized so you can avoid premature gasket degradation and unplanned downtime.

Because performance depends on concentration, temperature, pressure, and exposure time, always cross-check chart entries against your exact operating conditions. Materials that rate “good” in general charts can still fail if the chemical is hotter, more concentrated, or part of a mixed stream. Use the chemical resistance chart alongside the broader chemical compatibility chart for a layered view of suitability under typical use cases.

Why expert advice matters when selecting gasket materials

Charts are essential starting points, but real-world variables often fall outside generic ratings. Batch variability, dynamic cycling, mechanical stresses, permeation, and regulatory requirements (FDA, USP, 3-A) all influence performance beyond what a chart alone can convey. Consulting with our applications specialists helps validate assumptions, interpret ambiguous ratings, and tailor recommendations to your service conditions—especially for complex media blends or CIP/SIP regimes.

For instance, the EPDM chemical resistance rating may shift with frequent steam cycles or the presence of trace solvents. Our team can confirm whether EPDM remains appropriate or whether alternatives such as PTFE-encapsulated elastomers, FKM, or silicone offer a better safety margin. This guidance reduces risk, improves seal life, and supports compliance.

Where to find charts and selection tools

• Gasket material compatibility chart: Access our downloadable material compatibility chart and full chemical compatibility chart from the Chemical Resistance List 2020 section on our site. These resources consolidate data for common elastomers and thermoplastics, letting you compare options quickly. You will find the chemical resistance chart in an easy-to-scan format, with links to detailed notes and conditions. For multiple reference points, the chart is also mirrored in our Knowledge Center with the comprehensive chemical compatibility chart for cross-verification.

• Gasket selection guide: Visit our Gasket Selection Guide to move from compatibility screening to product choice. The guide integrates compatibility ratings with application criteria such as temperature range, pressure class, surface finish, regulatory compliance, and installation practices. Where the chart suggests multiple viable materials, the guide helps narrow the field by performance and certification needs.

How to use the charts effectively

1) Identify your media: List each chemical (including cleaners), with concentration and temperature.

2) Consult the chemical resistance chart for each chemical to flag “recommended,” “conditional,” or “not recommended” materials.

3) Cross-check in the broader chemical compatibility chart to confirm trends, noting edge temperatures and mixed-media effects.

4) Review the material compatibility chart to compare elastomer families side by side.

5) Validate choices with our experts, particularly when EPDM chemical resistance or other elastomer ratings are marginal at your conditions.

Key takeaways

• Use the chemical resistance chart to quickly spot good and poor pairings for specific chemicals.

• Confirm findings in the chemical compatibility chart and the material compatibility chart to account for variations in conditions.

• EPDM performs well with many aqueous and polar media but poorly with oils and hydrocarbons; verify against your temperatures and concentrations.

• Seek expert advice to optimize safety, reliability, and compliance.

• Find the gasket material compatibility chart and the gasket selection guide on our website under Chemical Resistance List and Resources.

Download the latest chemical resistance chart, review the chemical compatibility chart for deeper context, and consult the material compatibility chart to compare elastomer families. If you have questions about EPDM chemical resistance or need help interpreting results, contact our technical team for personalized support and a tailored gasket selection recommendation.