Polymer materials are used in many types of applications across a broad spectrum of industry including automotive, aerospace, food and dairy and the chemical engineering industry to name a selection. They are typically used for high performance sealing solutions and therefore it is extremely important that the materials used for these applications are safe for use.

Polymers are tested for their chemical compatibility as well as their resistance to pressures and temperatures and this information is then used to develop and improve polymer materials.

Chemical compatibility
Sealing materials are frequently used in unique combinations which need to perform in chemically aggressive environments or under high pressures and temperatures. For this reason, seals are rigorously tested and rated accordingly. Whilst undergoing testing, any changes seen in the physical property of a material can be examined and solutions found.

Failure analysis
A seal which has failed in its required application will need to be examined to determine the cause of the failure. Various testing techniques are used to identify the cause and mode of failure. This includes finding the difference between chemical and thermal degradation and investigating the possible causes. Failure may also be linked to other factors such as environmental stress, mechanical failure, premature ageing, poor design or outside contaminants.