Cetyl alcohol, also known as hexadecan-1-ol, is a saturated fatty alcohol composed of 16 carbon atoms and 24 hydrogen atoms. It is a white, waxy, solid material with a mild odor. Cetyl alcohol is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener.
When rubber is exposed to cetyl alcohol, the rubber may become brittle and prone to cracking. In addition, the rubber may become sticky, which can lead to the rubber becoming gummy and difficult to handle. The rubber may also become discolored or swell, causing it to lose its elasticity. In extreme cases, cetyl alcohol can cause the rubber to completely break down and become unusable.
Viton ® o-rings from Marco Rubber offer excellent compatibility with a range of chemicals, oils and resist high temperatures up to 400F. Viton ® is also known as FKM made of fluoroelastomer one of the most versatile and widely used sealing materials.
View some of our other material compatibility ratings with CETYL ALCOHOL. If you don't see what you're looking for or need more guidance, our team of experienced sealing design engineers can help select the best sealing products and material for your specific application.
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