FEPM Material Characterization

Bobby Brown

Post 2016-03-03

What is FEPM
FEPM vs FKM
Chemical Resistance Chart

What is FEPM

FEPM (Tetrafluoroethylene Propylene Monomer) is a type of elastomer that stands out for its excellent heat and chemical resistance.
It maintains its integrity and performance at temperatures up to approximately 230°C (446°F), and in some cases, can endure higher temperatures for short durations.
FEPM shows exceptional resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents. This resistance makes it suitable for applications in the chemical processing industry, where materials are regularly exposed to aggressive substances.
FEPM is highly resistant to ozone, ultraviolet (UV) light, and weathering, which contributes to its long service life in outdoor applications.
FEPM also possesses good electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for certain electrical applications.
Applications: O-rings for Mechanical Seals,O-rings for Marine Engine,O-rings for Steam Resistance,O-rings for downhole Application,Cable Application,Transmission Seals for automotive,Turbo Hose

FEPM vs FKM

Feature	FEPM (Tetrafluoroethylene Propylene Monomer)	FKM (Fluorocarbon Rubber)
Chemical Resistance	Exceptional resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including strong acids, bases, and solvents.	Excellent resistance to oils, fuels, and some acids but generally less resistant to strong bases and certain chemicals compared to FEPM.
Resistance to Strong Bases	Superior resistance, ideal for high pH environments.	Less effective, limiting its use with alkaline substances.
Cost-Effectiveness	More cost-effective in the long run due to durability and broader chemical compatibility.	Lower initial cost, but overall value must consider potential for replacement and performance limitations.
Temperature Resistance	Effective up to approximately 230°C (446°F), varying by formulation.	Handles temperatures up to 250°C (482°F), depending on the specific type of FKM.
Application Suitability	Suitable for harsher environments like chemical processing, with exposure to a wide range of chemicals.	Favored in automotive, aerospace, and oil & gas for its resistance to fuels, oils, and some acids.
Weathering and Aging Resistance	Excellent resistance to ozone, UV light, and weathering.	Good resistance to weathering and aging, maintaining performance over time.

Chemical Resistance Chart

How to use this chart

» Meaning of symbol:
OK: Recommended. △: Must confirm if usable by testing in advanced. X: Not recommended.
» This chart only provides the result of a single chemical to material, if a client uses more than one kind of chemical at the same time, please choose material by experience.
» This chart is for reference only which is not applicable to all working environments. Please refer to design equipment according to practical experience.

Category	Name	FEPM
Organic acids	Acetic acid	N/A
	Acetic acid, glacial	X
	Acetic anhydride	△
	Citric acid	OK
Organic compound	Acetaldehyde	X
	Acetone	X
	Methyl alcohol	N/A
	Aniline	△
	Benzaldehyde	△
	Benzene	X
	Benzyl alcohol	△
	Benzyl chloride	△
	Corn oil	N/A
	Ethanol	OK
	Ethylene glycol	OK
	Fatty acid	N/A
	Formaldehyde	X
	Formic acid	X
	Hexane	X
	Lactic acid	N/A
	Methanol	OK
	Paraffin oil	N/A
	Petroleum	N/A
	Phenol	OK
	Propane, liq	OK
	Propanol	N/A
	Stearic acid	OK
	Tannic acid	OK
	Tartaric acid	OK
	Toluene	X
	Urea	N/A
Inorganic compound	Ammonia	OK
	Ammonium chloride	OK
	Ammonium hydroxide	OK
	Ammonium nitrate	N/A
	Ammonium sulfate	N/A
	Aqua regia	X
	Barium chloride	N/A
	Barium hydroxide	N/A
	Brine	N/A
	Calcium Chloride	N/A
	Calcium hydroxide	N/A
	Carbonic acid	OK
	Chloric acid	N/A
	Chlorine	OK (Water) X (Dry)
	Detergent	N/A
	Hydrobromic acid	OK
	Hydrochloric acid	OK (37%)
	Hydrofluoric acid	N/A
	Hydrogen peroxide	OK
	Nitric acid	△
	Phosphoric acid	OK
	Potassium hydroxide	OK
	Potassium nitrate	N/A
	Potassium sulfate	N/A
	Sodium carbonate	N/A
	Sodium hydroxide	OK
	Sodium nitrate	N/A
	Sulfuric acid	OK (Fuming)
	Sulfur dioxide	△ (Gas)