All of these tests were conducted at room temperature except the metal compatibility tests which were accelerated by the use of higher temperatures. Immersion times were 15 minutes.

Users should be aware that the composition of plastics and elastomers varies depending upon compounding agents, plasticizers, processing, etc. This variation can cause unexpected effects with solvents. Specific materials should be tested for compatibility with solvent.

Elastomer swelling and shrinking will, in most cases, revert to within a few percent of original size after air drying. Swell, shrinkage, and extractables are strongly affected by the compounding agents, plasticizers, and curing used in the manufacture of plastics and elastomers.

Always, good chemical management would suggest that, prior to wide-scale deployment of a new solvent, thorough testing on plastics and elastomers is particularly important.

For more information about materials compatibility, readers are directed to the relevant Frequently Asked Questions which are full of technical details. In particular, review:

• FAQ 14 offers a useful discussion about aggressive solvents and how to measure their activity, which relates directly to materials compatibility
  
  
• FAQ 34 features a lengthy presentation about materials compatibility and its impact on selecting a solvent.

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