Chemical resistant resins

How long a composite tank or pipe lasts depends largely on how well its resin resists the media inside it. Polyester chemical resistance varies widely between resin families. AOC helps fabricators and engineers choose wisely, backed by more than 70 years of testing and field experience with corrosion-resistant composites.

Polyester chemical resistance by resin type

Each resin chemistry offers a different level of protection:

• Orthophthalic polyester: suitable for water and mild chemicals at moderate temperatures.
• Isophthalic and Iso/NPG polyester: better resistance to water, acids and weathering.
• Bisphenol A and fumarate polyesters: such as Atlac® 382 and Atlac® 4010 A, for demanding tanks, pipes and anti-corrosion equipment.
• Terephthalic polyester: such as F774-PTW-30, for storage tanks of organic chemicals.
• Vinyl esters: the highest level of polymer chemical resistance, with Novolac grades for hot and aggressive media.

Typical corrosion-resistant applications

Chemically resistant composites are used in storage tanks, process vessels, pipes, scrubbers, ducts, chimneys and linings. Atlac® resins are also used in food-contact and potable-water equipment. See our anti-corrosion market and chemical resistance products.

Chemical Resistance Advice

AOC's Chemical Resistance Advice service gives application-specific recommendations. You share the chemicals and concentrations, pH, operating and design temperatures, exposure conditions and construction details. Our specialists use the AOC test database and field experience to advise on suitable resin systems and laminate build-up.

More than the resin alone

Chemical resistance also depends on the laminate design, corrosion barrier thickness, glass type and full post-cure. AOC Technical Service supports fabricators with processing recommendations for filament winding, hand lay-up and other methods, so the laminate reaches its intended performance.

Frequently asked questions about chemical resistant resins

Which resin has the best chemical resistance?

Vinyl esters generally offer the highest chemical resistance, with Novolac vinyl esters for hot and aggressive media. The best choice always depends on the specific chemicals and conditions.

Is there a chemical resistance guide for AOC resins?

Yes. The Chemical Resistance Guide shows the resistance of AOC resins in different chemical environments and is available in our downloads.

Get expert polyester chemical resistance advice

Do not leave material selection to chance. Consult the Chemical Resistance Guide in our downloads and contact AOC for advice on polyester chemical resistance for your equipment.