POTASSIUM BROMIDE Resistant O-Rings and Seals

Potassium bromide, also known as bromic acid potassium salt, is a white crystalline powder mainly used as an anticonvulsant and sedative. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as an anticonvulsant in the treatment of epilepsy, as a sedative and in the manufacture of various compounds. It is also used in photography, electroplating, and in the production of certain dyes.

When exposed to potassium bromide, rubber materials may experience a variety of failures such as cracking, swelling, discoloration, and even dissolution. The severity of the failure depends on the type of rubber, the concentration of the chemical, and the length of exposure. For example, natural rubber, EPDM and neoprene rubbers may experience swelling and cracking due to their sensitivity to the chemical. On the other hand, nitrile, silicone, and fluoroelastomer rubbers may resist the effects of the chemical and remain unaffected.