POTASSIUM CITRATE Resistant O-Rings and Seals

Potassium chromate, also known as chromic acid potassium salt, potassium dichromate and potassium hexavalent chromium is a highly toxic yellow crystalline compound used in a variety of industries. It is used in leather tanning, wood preservation, corrosion inhibitors, paint production, metallurgy, and in some cases, as a mordant in dyeing.

When exposed to potassium chromate, rubber materials can experience a variety of failures. For example, swelling, hardening, and brittleness of the rubber can occur leading to cracking, splitting, and eventual failure. In addition, the rubber can become discolored and brittle, leading to a decrease in tensile strength and elongation. Other common failures are swelling, fissuring, and cracking of the rubber due to its increased permeability to the chemical. Additionally, the rubber can become embrittled, leading to a decrease in resilience and a decrease in tear strength.