Sulfurous acid, also known as sulfur dioxide, is a pungent, colorless gas with a strong odor. It is often used as a preservative for food products and beverages, as a bleaching agent in food production, and as a sterilizer for medical supplies. In industrial processes, it is used to create sulfuric acid, a chemical used in various treatments and cleaning agents.
When rubber is exposed to sulfurous acid, the acid will corrode the rubber, causing it to become brittle and weak. Additionally, the acid can cause the rubber to swell and distort, resulting in a weakened seal. The acid can also cause the rubber to degrade over time, resulting in a loss of flexibility and a decrease in the overall integrity of the rubber seal.
Aflas® o-rings provide excellent chemical, high temperature, and steam resistance. TFE/P rubber, Aflas® fluoropolymer materials provide dependable sealing performance in water, steam, bases, and caustic environments resulting in common use in the oil exploration and drilling industry.
View some of our other material compatibility ratings with SULFUROUS ACID. 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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