Chemical Resistance Performance Testing Service

Chemical Resistance Performance Testing Service – Comprehensive Evaluation of Material Durability Against Chemical Exposure for Industrial, Construction, Automotive and Packaging Applications

As an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited independent testing laboratory, we offer specialised chemical resistance performance testing services to manufacturers, engineering contractors, quality assurance teams, and regulatory compliance professionals across the chemical processing, oil and gas, automotive, aerospace, construction, packaging, and medical device sectors. Chemical resistance – the ability of a material to withstand degradation, swelling, cracking, or loss of mechanical properties when exposed to aggressive chemical environments – is a critical performance parameter for products and components that come into contact with acids, bases, solvents, fuels, oils, cleaning agents, and industrial process fluids. In Chile's diverse industrial landscape – from the copper and lithium mining operations in the Atacama Desert to the chemical processing plants in the central region and the marine environments along the Pacific coast – materials must maintain their integrity under harsh chemical conditions. Our test protocols evaluate the resistance of polymers, elastomers, composites, coatings, metals, and ceramics to a wide range of chemical agents under controlled temperature, concentration, and exposure time conditions. All methods are aligned with ISO, ASTM, EN, and NCh standards, as well as international regulations, including ISO 175 (Plastics – Determination of the effects of liquid chemicals), ASTM D543 (Resistance of plastic materials to chemical reagents), ISO 10545-13 (Ceramic tiles – Determination of chemical resistance), ASTM C267 (Chemical resistance of mortars, grouts and monolithic surfacings), ASTM B117 (Salt spray), ISO 9227 (Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres – Salt spray tests), and NCh 231 (Paints and varnishes – Chemical resistance). Our reports are recognised by ANOR (Agence des Normes et de la Qualité – Cameroon), Standards Council of Canada (SCC), Superintendencia de Electricidad y Combustibles (SEC – Chile), Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN – Chile), and international certification bodies for product registration, type approval, and quality assurance.

Materials and Products We Regularly Test

Our chemical resistance testing facilities accommodate a wide range of materials, coatings, and finished products. Typical test articles include:

• Polymer materials – thermoplastics (PVC, PE, PP, PA, PC, POM, PEEK, PTFE), thermosets (epoxy, polyester, phenolic, polyurethane), and elastomers (EPDM, NBR, FKM, silicone, natural rubber)
• Composite materials – glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP), carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP), and hybrid composites
• Protective coatings and linings – epoxy, polyurethane, vinyl ester, rubber linings, and ceramic coatings
• Construction materials – concrete, mortar, cementitious grouts, ceramic tiles, and masonry
• Metals and alloys – stainless steels, aluminium alloys, copper alloys, nickel-based alloys, and carbon steels
• Glass and ceramics – borosilicate glass, soda-lime glass, and ceramic coatings
• Sealants, gaskets and adhesives – elastomeric seals, structural adhesives, and sealants
• Textiles and nonwovens – protective clothing fabrics, geotextiles, and filtration media
• Packaging materials – flexible films, rigid containers, and multi-layer laminates

Test Methods – Immersion, Spot and Cyclic Exposure Protocols

• Total immersion test – ISO 175 / ASTM D543 / GB/T 11547 – We immerse test specimens (typically 50 mm × 50 mm or larger) in a specified chemical solution (e.g., acids, bases, solvents, oils, fuels) at a controlled temperature (typically 23 °C, 40 °C, 60 °C, or 80 °C) for a specified period (typically 7, 14, 28, or 56 days). The solution is maintained at the specified concentration by periodic replenishment. After exposure, we evaluate the specimens for changes in weight, dimensions, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, or compressive strength).
• Spot test (drop test) – ISO 10545-13 / ASTM D543 – We apply a drop of the chemical test solution (e.g., 10 % NaOH, 5 % H₂SO₄, acetone, ethanol) to the surface of the test specimen and cover it with a watch glass to prevent evaporation. The specimen is maintained at a controlled temperature (typically 23 °C or 40 °C) for a specified period (typically 24-72 hours). After exposure, we rinse the surface and evaluate it for changes in colour, gloss, surface texture, blistering, or loss of adhesion.
• Alternate immersion (wet/dry cycling) – for simulating service conditions with wetting and drying cycles – We cycle the specimen between immersion in the chemical solution and exposure to air (drying) to simulate the wetting and drying cycles experienced by materials in service (e.g., chemical plant equipment, outdoor structures). The cycle frequency (e.g., 4 hours immersed, 20 hours dry) and the number of cycles (typically 10-100) are selected to match the expected service conditions.
• Pressurised chemical exposure – for simulating high-pressure process conditions – For components used in high-pressure chemical environments (e.g., oil and gas production, chemical reactors, pipelines), we perform exposure testing in a pressurised autoclave at elevated pressures (up to 10 MPa) and temperatures (up to 150 °C). The test conditions are selected to match the service environment, and the specimens are evaluated for degradation and strength retention.
• Chemical spray and fog testing – ASTM B117 (modified) / ISO 9227 – We expose the test specimen to a fine chemical spray (or fog) in an environmental chamber at a specified temperature and concentration. This test is used to simulate the exposure of outdoor structures to chemical mist or to chemical process emissions.
• Combined chemical and mechanical loading – for assessing stress corrosion cracking – ASTM G36 / NACE TM0177 – For materials that are exposed to chemical environments under tensile stress, we perform stress corrosion cracking (SCC) testing using U-bend, C-ring, or four-point bent beam specimens. The specimens are immersed in the chemical solution under a constant stress, and the time to cracking is recorded.

Performance Metrics – Quantifying Chemical Resistance

• Weight change (%) – for assessing chemical attack and absorption – We measure the weight of the specimen before and after exposure. A weight gain > 5 % (for polymers) or a weight loss > 3 % (for metals) typically indicates significant chemical attack (swelling, absorption, or dissolution).
• Dimensional change (%) – for assessing swelling and distortion – We measure the dimensions (length, width, thickness) of the specimen before and after exposure. A dimensional change > 2 % is typically considered a failure for precision components.
• Colour change (ΔE*) – for assessing aesthetic degradation – We measure the colour coordinates (L*, a*, b*) before and after exposure, and calculate the total colour difference (ΔE*). A ΔE* > 3.0 is considered a visible change for most applications.
• Gloss retention (%) – for assessing surface degradation – We measure the 60° gloss before and after exposure. A gloss retention < 80 % is considered a failure for decorative and architectural coatings.
• Mechanical property retention (%) – for assessing structural integrity – We perform tensile, flexural, or compressive strength tests on exposed and unexposed (control) specimens. The strength retention rate is calculated as: Retention (%) = (Strength_exposed / Strength_unexposed) × 100. A retention rate of ≥ 80 % is generally considered acceptable for most structural applications; for critical applications, a retention rate of ≥ 90 % may be required.
• Hardness change (Shore A/D or Rockwell) – for assessing softening or hardening – We measure the Shore hardness (for elastomers) or Rockwell hardness (for metals) before and after exposure. A change > 10 points (Shore) or > 5 HRB (Rockwell) is considered significant.
• Visual assessment – blistering, cracking, and delamination – ISO 4628 / ASTM D714 – We provide a detailed visual assessment using standard rating scales for blistering (ASTM D714), rusting (ASTM D610), and cracking (ISO 4628). The results are documented with high-resolution photographs.

Material-Specific Chemical Resistance – Plastics, Elastomers, Metals and Coatings

• Chemical resistance of plastics and composites – ISO 175 / ASTM D543 – We test the resistance of plastics and composites to acids, bases, solvents, oils, and fuels at various concentrations and temperatures. The test evaluates the resistance to hydrolysis, swelling, stress cracking, and loss of mechanical properties – critical for materials used in chemical processing equipment, pipes, and storage tanks.
• Chemical resistance of elastomers and rubbers – ISO 1817 / ASTM D471 – We test the resistance of elastomers (EPDM, NBR, FKM, silicone, natural rubber) to oils, fuels, hydraulic fluids, and chemicals. The test measures the volume change, hardness change, and tensile strength retention. A volume change > 15 % or a tensile strength retention < 70 % is typically considered a failure.
• Chemical resistance of protective coatings and linings – ASTM C267 / NACE TM0293 – We evaluate the resistance of protective coatings (epoxy, polyurethane, vinyl ester, rubber linings) to chemical solutions. The test assesses the coating for blistering, loss of adhesion, softening, and failure. A coating that passes the test must show no blistering, adhesion loss, or significant softening after exposure.
• Chemical resistance of metals – ASTM G31 / ISO 11114 – We measure the corrosion rate (in mm/year) and the pitting susceptibility of metals (stainless steels, aluminium, nickel alloys) in chemical solutions. The test is performed under controlled temperature and concentration, and the corrosion rates are compared to the maximum allowable limits for the application.
• Chemical resistance of concrete and cementitious materials – ASTM C267 / EN 13510 – We test the resistance of concrete, mortar, and grout to chemical attack (e.g., acid rain, alkaline groundwater, chemical spills). The test measures the compressive strength retention, weight change, and dimensional stability of the material after exposure.
• Chemical resistance of glass and ceramics – ISO 10545-13 / ASTM C150 – For ceramic tiles, glass, and glazed surfaces, we test the resistance to chemical staining and surface attack. The test assesses the gloss change, colour change, and surface roughness of the material after exposure.

Environmental Conditioning and Ageing – Assessing Long-Term Durability

• Accelerated chemical ageing – at elevated temperatures (e.g., 60 °C, 80 °C) – We perform accelerated ageing tests by exposing the material to a higher temperature (e.g., 60 °C or 80 °C) while immersed in the chemical solution. The test duration is reduced by using the Arrhenius equation to estimate the equivalent exposure time at the service temperature.
• Thermal cycling during chemical exposure – for simulating diurnal and seasonal temperature changes – We cycle the temperature (e.g., 20 °C to 60 °C) while the specimen is immersed in the chemical solution. The thermal cycling accelerates the degradation by creating cyclic stresses on the material.
• Combined chemical and UV exposure – for simulating outdoor and industrial environments – ASTM G154 / ISO 4892-3 – We combine chemical exposure with UV weathering (UVA‑340 lamps, 0.89 W/m², 60 °C, 8h dry / 4h condensation cycles) for 500‑2 000 hours to simulate the combined effect of sunlight and chemical attack on outdoor materials.
• Combined chemical and mechanical loading (stress corrosion cracking) – ASTM G36 / NACE TM0177 – For materials that are exposed to chemical solutions under tensile stress, we perform stress corrosion cracking (SCC) testing using U-bend, C-ring, or four-point bent beam specimens. The test determines the susceptibility of the material to chemical stress corrosion cracking.
• Humidity and condensation after chemical exposure – for assessing post-exposure performance – After the chemical exposure, we condition the specimens in a humidity chamber (e.g., 95 % RH, 40 °C) to assess the effect of moisture on the degraded material.

Simulation of Extreme Climatic Conditions – Atacama Desert, Patagonia and Coastal Regions

• Chemical resistance at high temperatures – for simulating the Atacama Desert – We perform chemical resistance tests at 40 °C, 50 °C, and 60 °C to simulate the conditions of the northern regions of Chile, where temperatures can exceed 40 °C.
• Chemical resistance at low temperatures – for simulating the Patagonia and the Andes – We perform chemical resistance tests at -10 °C, -20 °C, and -30 °C to simulate the winter conditions in the south of Chile and in high-altitude areas.
• Chemical resistance in high-humidity conditions – for simulating coastal and southern Chilean climates – We condition the specimens at 95 % RH and 40 °C for 48 hours before the chemical resistance test, to simulate the conditions of coastal areas (Valparaíso, Concepción) and the south of Chile (Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas).
• Chemical resistance in high-altitude conditions – for simulating mining operations in the Andes – We perform the chemical resistance tests at reduced pressure (simulating altitudes of 3 000 to 4 500 metres above sea level) to evaluate the effect of low atmospheric pressure on the chemical resistance of materials.
• Salt spray and chemical resistance combination – for simulating coastal industrial environments – ASTM B117 / ISO 9227 – We combine salt spray (5 % NaCl, 35 °C) with chemical exposure (acid, base, or solvent) for 240‑500 hours to simulate the corrosive conditions of coastal industrial areas.

Regulatory Compliance and Certification – Supporting National and International Requirements

Our chemical resistance testing services are performed in accordance with the most widely used international and national standards. The most commonly requested include:

• ISO 175 – Plastics – Determination of the effects of liquid chemicals – the international standard for chemical resistance testing of plastics
• ASTM D543 – Standard Test Methods for Resistance of Plastic Materials to Chemical Reagents – the North American standard for chemical resistance
• ISO 10545-13 – Ceramic tiles – Determination of chemical resistance – for ceramic tiles
• ASTM C267 – Standard Test Methods for Chemical Resistance of Mortars, Grouts, and Monolithic Surfacings – for cementitious materials
• NACE TM0293 – Standard Test Method for the Determination of the Resistance of Coatings to Chemical Attack – for protective coatings
• ASTM G31 – Standard Guide for Laboratory Immersion Corrosion Testing of Metals – for metallic materials
• ISO 11114 – Metallic materials – Corrosion tests – General principles for testing in liquid media – for metals
• ISO 1817 – Rubber, vulcanized – Determination of the effect of liquids – for elastomers
• ASTM D471 – Standard Test Method for Rubber Property – Effect of Liquids – for elastomers
• ISO 9227 – Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres – Salt spray tests – for corrosion testing
• GB/T 11547 – Determination of the effects of liquid chemicals on plastics – the Chinese national standard for chemical resistance
• NCh 231 – Paints and varnishes – Chemical resistance – the Chilean standard for coatings

Interpretation of Results and Acceptance Criteria

• Weight change (%) – Weight change < 2 % is excellent ; between 2 and 5 % is acceptable ; > 5 % is insufficient.
• Dimensional change (%) – Change < 1 % is excellent ; between 1 and 3 % is acceptable ; > 3 % is insufficient.
• Colour change (ΔE*) – ΔE* < 2 is excellent ; between 2 and 4 is acceptable ; > 4 is insufficient.
• Gloss retention (%) – Retention > 80 % is excellent ; between 70 and 80 % is acceptable ; < 70 % is insufficient.
• Mechanical property retention (%) – Retention > 90 % is excellent ; between 80 and 90 % is acceptable ; < 80 % is insufficient.
• Hardness change (Shore points) – Change < 5 points is excellent ; between 5 and 10 points is acceptable ; > 10 points is insufficient.
• Statistics and uncertainties – For each series of tests (at least 5 specimens), we provide the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (CV) for each parameter. A CV < 10 % is considered excellent.

Advantages of Our Service for the Global Market

• ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation – guaranteeing the reliability, traceability, and international acceptance of our results.
• Bilingual reports (English/Spanish, English/French) – to facilitate submissions to regulatory authorities and international partners.
• Simulation of extreme climatic conditions – our tests integrate the effects of high temperatures (desert), low temperatures (Patagonia and Andes), high humidity (coastal and southern regions), and high altitude (Andean mines).
• Support for regulatory compliance – our reports are directly usable for product registration, certification, and compliance with national and international regulations.
• Experience in key industrial sectors – our laboratory has extensive experience in the mining, energy, chemical, construction, automotive, and packaging sectors.
• Adapted turnaround times – we understand the logistical and commercial constraints of the global market and are committed to delivering results within competitive timeframes.

Conclusion

Chemical resistance performance testing is a fundamental tool for guaranteeing the durability, safety, and regulatory compliance of materials and products exposed to aggressive chemical environments. Our testing services, accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 and compliant with international and national standards, allow you to validate the chemical resistance of your materials, optimise your selection, and ensure regulatory compliance. Whether you are a manufacturer, importer, contractor, engineer, or quality assurance professional, we accompany you in the mastery of chemical resistance performance, from initial testing to final certification.