Water absorption / hygroscopicity
Exposure can change polymer dimensions and integrity
- Water absorption / hygroscopicityThis term
Water can enter the material rather than merely sit on its surface. Conditioning and moisture content can change dimensions and response.
- Moisture conditioning
The material is brought to a defined moisture condition. Compare results from equivalent conditioning and handling.
- Hydrolysis
The exposure can chemically alter susceptible chains. Moisture uptake and hydrolysis are different mechanisms.
- Swelling
Absorbed fluid can increase dimensions or volume. Check the actual fluid and compound rather than assuming stable seal squeeze.
- Environmental stress cracking (ESC)
A susceptible polymer cracks under combined exposure and stress. Evaluate the assembled load and the specific environment.
- Chemical resistance
A defined chemical exposure is evaluated for the actual material. Resistance to one fluid or condition does not establish general chemical suitability.
Moisture uptake, controlled conditioning, chemical chain changes, swelling and stress-assisted cracking describe different exposure outcomes. A material name alone cannot resolve compatibility.
Exaggerated qualitative material sketches. The fluid, concentration, temperature, time and actual compound must be specified for selection.