When working with microfluidic systems, selecting the right materials is crucial to ensure system integrity, longevity, and performance. The choice of oils—be it mineral, silicone, or fluorinated—plays a significant role in the success of these applications. Each oil type offers distinct properties that make it suitable for specific purposes, from lubrication to temperature regulation.
However, the compatibility of these oils with different materials varies widely. Using an incompatible material can lead to chemical degradation, compromised performance, and even system failure. To help engineers, researchers, and technicians navigate these challenges, we’ve compiled a detailed chemical compatibility chart for mineral, silicone, and fluorinated oils, based on the chemical compatibility data (at 21°C) provided by Cole-Parmer, Krytox and Syensqo.
This guide provides a quick reference to assess how these oils interact with various materials, ensuring informed decisions that optimize efficiency and safety in microfluidic systems.
💡 The chemical compatibility rating key is as follows:
- A = Excellent chemical compatibility (no effect)
- B = Good chemical compatibility (minor effect)
- C = Fair (moderate effect: not recommended for continuous use)
- D = Severe effect (not recommended for use)
- N/A = No data available
- Superscript 1 = Satisfactory up to 22°C (72°F)
🚨 The compatibility ratings provided in these tables are for general guidance only and may not be complete or accurate. They do not address potential contamination or changes in fluid properties due to tubing interaction. We do not guarantee the suitability of any material for specific purposes or the impact of tubing on fluid quality. For critical applications, conduct specific tests or seek expert advice.
Mineral, Silicone, Fluorinated Oils: Chemical Compatibility Table
| Material | Mineral Oils | Silicone Oils | Fluorinated Oils |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS Plastic | A | A | A |
| Acetal (Delrin®) | A | A | A |
| Acrylic Rubber (ACM) | N/A | A | A |
| Aluminum | A | A | A |
| Brass | A | N/A | A |
| Bronze | A | A | A |
| Buna N (Nitrile) | A | A | A |
| Carbon Graphite | A | A | N/A |
| Carbon Steel | B | A | N/A |
| Cast Iron | N/A | A | A |
| Copper | B | A | A |
| EPDM | D | A | A |
| Epoxy | A | A | N/A |
| FFKM | A | A | B |
| FKM | A | A | B |
| Glass | A | A | A |
| Kalrez | A | A | A |
| LDPE | B1 | A | A |
| Natural Rubber | D | D | A |
| Neoprene | B | D | A |
| NORYL® | A1 | A1 | A |
| Nylon | A | A1 | A |
| Polycarbonate | B | N/A | A |
| Polyetherether Ketone (PEEK) | A | A | A |
| Polyethylene (PE) | N/A | A | A |
| Polypropylene (PP) | A | A | A |
| Polystyrene (PS) | N/A | A | A |
| Polyurethane (PU) | A | A | A |
| PPS (Ryton®) | A | A1 | A |
| PTFE | A | A | A |
| PVC | B | A | A |
| PVDF | A | A | A |
| Silicone | C | C | C |
| Silicone Rubber | N/A | A | C |
| Stainless Steel - 304 | A | A | A |
| Stainless Steel - 316 | A | A | A |
| Tygon® | B | A | A |
| UHMWPE | N/A | A | A |
| Viton® | A | A | B |
