COBALT CHLORIDE, 2N Resistant O-Rings and Seals

Cobalt Chloride, 2N, also known as cobaltous chloride, cobalt dichloride, and cobalt(II) chloride dihydrate, is an inorganic compound commonly used in laboratories for the purpose of determining relative humidity. Common uses for cobalt chloride in various industries include the production of other chemicals, water treatment, dyes and pigments, air purification, and photography.

When rubber is exposed to cobalt chloride, it can be degraded due to the presence of chlorine ions. The chlorine ions can react with the rubber’s polymer chains and cause chain scission, leading to the rubber becoming brittle and losing its flexibility. Additionally, the chlorine ions can react with the rubber’s additives, such as antioxidants, and cause them to break down, further weakening the rubber material. The presence of two chlorine ions in cobalt chloride dihydrate can further increase the likelihood of degradation.