Can sulphuric acid dissolve plastic

Answer 1

Yes, although some damage to the pipes may occur after prolonged exposure. If you can rinse the pipes with water while not actively using the muriatic acid (which is just hydrochloric acid) it would probably be fine. Also, if the muriatic acid is already diluted before passing through the pipes, it will definitely be fine. The resistance to concentrated hydrochloric acid is rated as "good," but its resistance to dilute solution is rated "excellent."

See the Web Links to the left for a chart of chemical resistance for PVC.

Answer 2

I have exposed PVC to 70% sulfuric acid for 21 days.

No leakage or breakdown of the PVC container has been observed during this period. I have exposed PVC to 70% sulfuric acid for 21 days.

No leakage or breakdown of the PVC container has been observed during this period.

Answer 3

YES! Sulfuric acid's reaction with plastic can be treacherous. HDPE #2 will keep it contained for a long time (more than a few months by experience, probably years) but any HDPE #1 and any plastic mixed with HDPE #1 will be destroyed. It becomes dangerous when you leave a bottle thinking it looks stable only to find out a week later that it has dissolved and the acid has eaten all around it. In doubt, avoid putting sulfuric acid in any plastic of unknown type. From experience, this acid seems to destroy plastics more quickly than metals! It is also more reactive when diluted so beware again as you may expect your diluted acid to behave as "gently" as your fully concentrated one.

Answer 4

No it does not. In fact sulfuric acid is often supplied in plastic bottles.

It depends on the type of plastic though. Some plastics are damaged by sulfuric acid. If in doubt, use a glass container but do not use metal.

The related link shows resistance of different plastics to various chemicals.

Weak acids are fine with most plastics but you need to be more careful with concentrated acid.

Answer 5

I have injected some concentrated sulphuric acid in a polysyrene well plate. It does not dissolve the plate, but I have the idea that it weakens the plate a bit. But then it is dependent on how long you leave the acid in the well.

Answer 6

It can degrade certain types of plastic but not dissolve it

Answer 7

The acid doesn't exactly "melt" the plastic, it dissolves it.

Answer 8

Sulfuric acid is an oxidant and can react with many organic compounds.