Potassium bicarbonate, also known as potassium hydrogen carbonate, is a common chemical used in a wide range of industries. It is used in the food industry for baking and as an additive in food products, as a buffering agent in pharmaceuticals, and as a flame retardant in plastics. Common uses of potassium bicarbonate in rubber include the manufacture of rubber compounds to produce gaskets, seals, and hoses.
When rubber is exposed to potassium bicarbonate, it can cause a range of failures, including accelerated aging and cracking. The chemical can cause swelling of the rubber, reducing its elasticity, which can cause seals and gaskets to leak. The chemical can also cause the rubber to become brittle and break down when exposed to extreme temperatures. Additionally, the chemical can cause the rubber to degrade, resulting in the breakdown of the rubber's protective barrier.
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 POTASSIUM BICARBONATE. 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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