When selecting chips for microfluidic applications, ensuring chemical resistance is crucial for maintaining system integrity and performance. TOPAS (a Cyclo Olefin Copolymer) is a popular choice due to its optically clear nature, lightweight properties, stiffness and strength, moisture barrier, and excellent biocompatibility. It is commonly used in medical, pharmaceutical, and food processing applications.
However, like all materials, TOPAS has its limitations, and not every chemical is compatible with it. Therefore, understanding resistance is essential for preventing chip degradation and ensuring safety. In this guide, we present a comprehensive table of chemical resistance for TOPAS chips. This table, based on the chemical resistance data (at 20°C) provided by TOPAS® COC, is designed to help engineers, technicians, and researchers quickly determine whether TOPAS chips are suitable for their specific applications, ensuring reliable and long-lasting performance in various chemical environments.
Refer to this table to make informed choices and maintain the efficiency and safety of your system.
💡 The chemical resistance rating key is as follows:
- resistant = no effect to slight effect
- limited resistance = moderate effect
- not resistant = severe effect
🚨 The resistance 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.
Topas (COC) Chips: Chemical Resistance Table
| Chemical Substance | Chemical Resistance |
|---|---|
| Acetic acid >94% | resistant |
| Acetone | resistant |
| Acetonitrile | resistant |
| Alkanes | not resistant |
| Ammonia (aqueous solution) 35% | resistant |
| Aqueous solution of soap | resistant |
| Benzaldehyde | limited resistance |
| Benzene | not resistant |
| Butanol | resistant |
| Butanone | resistant |
| Caustic soda solution 50% | resistant |
| Chlorinated solvents | not resistant |
| Dimethyl sulfoxide | resistant |
| Ethanol | resistant |
| Fats | not resistant |
| Gasoline | not resistant |
| Halogenated hydrocarbons | not resistant |
| Heptane | not resistant |
| Hexane | not resistant |
| Hydrochloric acid 36% | resistant |
| Isopropanol | resistant |
| Mcs-oil-04 | resistant |
| Methanol | resistant |
| Methylene chloride | not resistant |
| Mineral oils | not resistant |
| Naphtha | not resistant |
| Nitric acid 65% | resistant |
| Norbornene | not resistant |
| n-Pentane | not resistant |
| Oleic acid | not resistant |
| Pentane | not resistant |
| Petrol ether | not resistant |
| Saline solution | resistant |
| Short chain alcohols | resistant |
| Short chain ketones | resistant |
| Silicone oils | resistant |
| Soap solution | resistant |
| Sodium hydroxide 50% | resistant |
| Sulfuric acid 40% | resistant |
| Toluene | not resistant |
| Water | resistant |
