LAURIC ACID Resistant O-Rings and Seals

Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid found naturally occurring in certain plant and animal fats. It is also known by its systematic name dodecanoic acid and is often found in the form of monolaurin, a monoglyceride, in coconut and palm oils. It has a wide range of uses, from being a solid agent in soaps, cosmetics, and detergents, to being used as a food additive to increase shelf life and improve texture and taste in food products.

When rubber materials are exposed to lauric acid, they can suffer from swelling, discoloration, and embrittlement. This can occur due to the fatty acids in the lauric acid attacking the rubber’s polymer chains, which can cause cross-linking and breakdown of the rubber material. Additionally, lauric acid can lead to the formation of rust on metal components, which can cause corrosion and further weaken the rubber.