ASTM D543-21

Standard Practices for Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to Chemical Reagents

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 There are limitations of the results obtained from these practices. The choice of types and concentrations of reagents, duration of immersion or stress, or both, level of stress, temperature of the test, and properties to be reported are necessarily arbitrary. The specification of these conditions provides a basis for standardization and serves as a guide to investigators wishing to compare the relative resistance of various plastics to chemical reagents.  
4.2 Correlation of test results with the actual performance or serviceability of plastics is necessarily dependent upon the similarity between the testing and the end-use conditions. For applications involving continuous immersion, the data obtained in short-time tests are of interest only in eliminating the most unsuitable materials or indicating a probable relative order of resistance to chemical reagents.  
4.3 Evaluation of plastics for special applications involving corrosive conditions shall be based upon the particular reagents and concentrations to be encountered. Base the selection of test conditions on the manner and duration of contact with reagents, the temperature of the system, applied stress, and other performance factors involved in the particular application.  
4.4 The practices present general guidelines without covering specifics on all the varied applications of plastics, such as use in automobiles and exposure to various automotive fluids, or use in hospital environments with exposure to disinfectants and cleaning fluids. These practices can be extended to such applications with specifics on the study conducted noted in the report.  
4.5 The use of appropriate controls is critical to evaluate the utility of the information generated by these practices. Particular attention should be given to the variability in the data generated, especially for the baseline controls, and issues in data generation reported to mitigate misuse of information.
SCOPE
1.1 These practices cover the evaluation of all plastic materials including cast, hot-molded, cold-molded, laminated resinous products, and sheet materials for resistance to chemical reagents.  
1.2 Three procedures are presented, two under practice A (Immersion Test), and one under practice B (Mechanical Stress and Reagent Exposure under Standardized Conditions of Applied Strain). These practices include provisions for reporting changes in weight, dimensions, appearance, color, strength, and other mechanical properties. Standard reagents are specified to establish results on a comparable basis without precluding the use of other chemical reagents pertinent to specific chemical resistance requirements. Provisions are made for various exposure times, stress conditions, and exposure to reagents at elevated temperatures. The type of conditioning (immersion or wet patch/wipe method) depends upon the end-use of the material. If the material is used as a container or transfer line, immersion of the specimens is used. If the material will only see short exposures or will be used in proximity and reagent will splash or spill on the material, the wet patch or wipe method of applying reagent to the material is used.
Note 1: Practice B for evaluating environmental stress cracking resistance differs from Practice D7474, which seeks to measure residual stresses in molded sulfone plastic parts with the use of calibrated chemical reagents. Practice B differs from Test Method D1693, which seeks to quantify the susceptibility of ethylene plastics to environmental stress-cracking subjected to specific conditions, by measuring the proportion of specimens that crack in a given time.  
1.3 The effect of chemical reagents on properties shall be determined by making measurements on standard specimens for such tests before and after immersion or stress, or both, if so tested.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for infor...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Nov-2021
• ICS: 83.080.01 - Plastics in general
• Technical Committee: D20 - Plastics
• Drafting Committee: D20.50 - Durability of Plastics

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D883-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D883-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D883-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM D396-19a - Standard Specification for Fuel Oils
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19c - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM D396-19 - Standard Specification for Fuel Oils
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-18a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM D883-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM D396-18a - Standard Specification for Fuel Oils
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM D396-18 - Standard Specification for Fuel Oils
• Effective Date: 01-May-2018
• Refers: ASTM D396-17a - Standard Specification for Fuel Oils
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2017
• Refers: ASTM D7474-17 - Standard Practice for Determining Residual Stresses in Extruded or Molded Sulfone Plastic (SP) Parts by Immersion in Various Chemical Reagents
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2017
• Refers: ASTM D883-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2017

Overview

ASTM D543-21: Standard Practices for Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to Chemical Reagents is a vital ASTM standard widely used to assess how various plastics withstand exposure to chemical agents. This standard provides guidelines for testing the chemical resistance of plastic materials, including cast, hot-molded, cold-molded, laminated resinous products, and sheet materials. The practices detailed in ASTM D543-21 are crucial for manufacturers, product designers, and quality assurance professionals who require reliable methods to determine the durability and suitability of plastics in chemically aggressive environments.

ASTM D543-21 outlines procedures for evaluating the impact of chemical exposure on plastics by examining changes in physical and mechanical properties such as weight, dimensions, appearance, color, and strength. The standard serves as a foundation for comparing different plastics under consistent, standardized conditions, ultimately guiding material selection and product design for enhanced chemical resistance performance.

Key Topics

• Scope and Significance: Covers a broad range of plastics and describes how to select test conditions (chemical concentration, temperature, exposure duration, and applied stress) to reflect the intended application.
• Test Methods:
  • Practice A (Immersion Tests): Procedures for immersing plastic specimens in chemical reagents and evaluating changes in weight, dimensions, and appearance.
  • Practice B (Mechanical Stress and Chemical Exposure): Procedures for assessing changes in mechanical properties, including environmental stress cracking, under the influence of chemicals and mechanical strain.
• Standard Reagents: Provides a comprehensive list of standard chemicals (acids, bases, solvents, oils, fuels, detergents) used for testing, along with appropriate concentrations and specifications.
• Reporting Requirements: Details the information to include in test reports, such as material identification, test conditions, specimen preparation, type of exposure, observed changes, and variability in results.
• Controls and Data Interpretation: Emphasizes the need for well-documented controls and attention to variability in data to ensure reliable chemical resistance evaluations.

Applications

ASTM D543-21 is instrumental in various industries where plastics are subject to chemical exposure. Its practical applications include:

• Automotive: Assessing the resistance of plastics to fuels, oils, and cleaning agents for use in vehicle components.
• Medical and Healthcare: Testing plastics used in hospital equipment or medical devices for durability against disinfectants and cleaning fluids.
• Industrial: Evaluating chemical processing equipment, piping, and containers for resistance to process chemicals, solvents, and reagents.
• Consumer Products: Ensuring plastic components retain functionality and appearance when exposed to household cleaning agents or environmental pollutants.
• Military and Aerospace: Supporting the selection of plastics for equipment and vehicles exposed to fuels, lubricants, or decontaminating agents in demanding scenarios.

Overall, ASTM D543-21 helps ensure that plastic materials will perform reliably in real-world chemical exposure situations by providing a standardized, comparative approach to chemical resistance testing.

Related Standards

For a comprehensive understanding of plastic chemical resistance and to complement ASTM D543-21, consider these related standards and references:

• ASTM D618: Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
• ASTM D883: Terminology Relating to Plastics
• ASTM D1693: Test Method for Environmental Stress-Cracking of Ethylene Plastics
• ASTM D2244: Practice for Calculation of Color Tolerances and Differences
• ASTM D7474: Practice for Determining Residual Stresses in Extruded or Molded Sulfone Plastic Parts by Immersion in Chemical Reagents
• ISO 175: Plastics - Determination of resistance to liquid chemicals
• ISO 22088-3: Plastics - Determination of Resistance to Environmental Stress Cracking - Bent Strip Method
• SAE J1681: Gasoline, Alcohol and Diesel Fuel Surrogates for Materials Testing

Using ASTM D543-21 in conjunction with these standards provides a robust framework for evaluating and comparing the chemical resistance of plastics under varying test conditions and in multiple end-use environments.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D543 − 21
Standard Practices for
Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to Chemical
Reagents
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D543; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
1.1 These practices cover the evaluation of all plastic
only.
materials including cast, hot-molded, cold-molded, laminated
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
resinous products, and sheet materials for resistance to chemi-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
cal reagents.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
1.2 Three procedures are presented, two under practice A
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
(ImmersionTest), and one under practice B (Mechanical Stress
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
and Reagent Exposure under Standardized Conditions of
Specific hazards statements are given in Section 7.
Applied Strain). These practices include provisions for report-
NOTE 2—ISO 175 and ISO 22088 Part 3 address the same subject
ingchangesinweight,dimensions,appearance,color,strength,
matter as PracticesAand B of this standard, but differ in technical content
and other mechanical properties. Standard reagents are speci-
and the results cannot be directly compared.
fied to establish results on a comparable basis without preclud-
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
ing the use of other chemical reagents pertinent to specific
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
chemical resistance requirements. Provisions are made for
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
various exposure times, stress conditions, and exposure to
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
reagents at elevated temperatures. The type of conditioning
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
(immersion or wet patch/wipe method) depends upon the
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
end-use of the material. If the material is used as a container or
transfer line, immersion of the specimens is used. If the
2. Referenced Documents
material will only see short exposures or will be used in 2
2.1 ASTM Standards:
proximity and reagent will splash or spill on the material, the
D13 Specification for Spirits of Turpentine
wet patch or wipe method of applying reagent to the material
D396 Specification for Fuel Oils
is used.
D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
NOTE 1—Practice B for evaluating environmental stress cracking
resistance differs from Practice D7474, which seeks to measure residual D1040 Specification for Uninhibited Mineral Insulating Oil
stressesinmoldedsulfoneplasticpartswiththeuseofcalibratedchemical
for Use in Transformers and in Oil Circuit Breakers
reagents. Practice B differs from Test Method D1693, which seeks to
(Withdrawn 1980)
quantify the susceptibility of ethylene plastics to environmental stress-
D1693 Test Method for Environmental Stress-Cracking of
cracking subjected to specific conditions, by measuring the proportion of
Ethylene Plastics
specimens that crack in a given time.
D2244 Practice for Calculation of Color Tolerances and
1.3 The effect of chemical reagents on properties shall be
Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured Color
determined by making measurements on standard specimens
Coordinates
for such tests before and after immersion or stress, or both, if
D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid
so tested.
Plastics Specimens
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
These practices are under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D20 on Plastics contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.50 on Durability of Plastics. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2021. Published December 2021. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1939. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as D543 - 20. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/D0543-21. www.astm.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D543 − 21
D7474 Practice for Determining Residual Stresses in Ex- provides a basis for standardization and serves as a guide to
trudedorMoldedSulfonePlastic(SP)PartsbyImmersion investigators wishing to compare the relative resistance of
in Various Chemical Reagents various plastics to chemical reagents.
2.2 Military Specifications:
4.2 Correlationoftestresultswiththeactualperformanceor
MIL-A-11755 Antifreeze, Arctic-Type
serviceability of plastics is necessarily dependent upon the
MIL-A-46153 Antifreeze, Ethylene Glycol, Inhibited,
similarity between the testing and the end-use conditions. For
Heavy Duty, Single Package
applications involving continuous immersion, the data ob-
MIL-C-372 Cleaning Compound, Solvent (For Bore of
tained in short-time tests are of interest only in eliminating the
Small Arms and Automatic Aircraft Weapons)
most unsuitable materials or indicating a probable relative
MIL-D-12468 Decontaminating Agent, STB
order of resistance to chemical reagents.
MIL-F-46162 Fuel, Diesel, Referee Grade
4.3 Evaluation of plastics for special applications involving
MIL-G-5572 Gasoline, Aviation, Grades 80/87, 100/130,
corrosiveconditionsshallbebasedupontheparticularreagents
115/145
andconcentrationstobeencountered.Basetheselectionoftest
MIL-H-5606 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, Aircraft,
conditions on the manner and duration of contact with
Missiles, and Ordinance
reagents, the temperature of the system, applied stress, and
MIL-H-6083 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, for Preser-
other performance factors involved in the particular applica-
vation and Operation
tion.
MIL-H-83282 Hydraulic Fluid, Fire Resistant, Synthetic
4.4 The practices present general guidelines without cover-
Hydrocarbon Base, Aircraft
MIL-L-7808 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engine, Syn- ing specifics on all the varied applications of plastics, such as
use in automobiles and exposure to various automotive fluids,
thetic Base, NATO Code Number 0–148
MIL-L-14107 Lubricating Oil, Weapons, Low Temperature or use in hospital environments with exposure to disinfectants
and cleaning fluids. These practices can be extended to such
MIL-L-23699 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engines,
Synthetic Base applications with specifics on the study conducted noted in the
report.
MIL-L-46000 Lubricant, Semi-Fluid (Automatic Weapons)
MIL-T-5624 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Grades JP-4 and JP-5
4.5 The use of appropriate controls is critical to evaluate the
MIL-T-83133 Turbine Fuel,Aviation, KeroseneType, Grade
utility of the information generated by these practices. Particu-
JP-8
lar attention should be given to the variability in the data
2.3 U.S. Army Regulation:
generated, especially for the baseline controls, and issues in
AR 70-71 Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Contamination
data generation reported to mitigate misuse of information.
Survivability of Army Material
5. Apparatus
2.4 ISO Standards:
ISO 175 Plastics—Determination of Resistance to Liquid
5.1 Balance—Use a balance capable of weighing accurately
Chemicals
to 0.05 % for a test specimen weighing 100 g or less, and to
ISO 22088 Part 3 Plastics—Determination of Resistance to
0.1 % for a test specimen weighing over 100 g.Assurance that
Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC)—Bent Strip
thebalancemeetstheperformancerequirementsisprovidedby
Method
frequent checks on adjustments of zero points and sensitivity
2.5 SAE Standards:
and by periodic calibration for absolute accuracy, using stan-
SAE J1681 Gasoline, Alcohol and Diesel Fuel Surrogates
dard masses.
for Materials Testing
5.2 Micrometers—Use a suitable micrometer for measuring
the dimensions of test specimens similar to that described in
3. Terminology
Test Method D5947. The micrometer should have an incre-
3.1 Definitions—Definitionsoftermsapplyingtotheseprac-
mental discrimination of at least 0.025 mm (0.001 in.). For
tices appear in Terminology D883.
specimens 0.100 in. thick or less, the micrometer used shall
have an incremental discrimination of at least 0.0025 mm
4. Significance and Use
(0.0001 in.). The micrometer must be verified using gauge
4.1 There are limitations of the results obtained from these
blocks traceable to the international system of units (SI)
practices. The choice of types and concentrations of reagents,
through a national metrology institute (NMI) .
duration of immersion or stress, or both, level of stress,
5.3 Room, or enclosed space capable of being maintained at
temperature of the test, and properties to be reported are
the standard laboratory atmosphere of 23 6 2°C (73.4 6
necessarily arbitrary. The specification of these conditions
3.6°F) and 50 6 10 % relative humidity in accordance with
Practice D618, Procedure A.
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4,
5.4 Containers—Suitable containers for submerging speci-
Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098, http://
mens in chemical reagents. They must be resistant to the
dodssp.daps.dla.mil.
Available fromAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
6 7
Available from SAE International (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Dr.,Warrendale, NMI includes such organizations as the National Institute of Standards and
PA 15096, http://www.sae.org. Technology (NIST).
D543 − 21
certain polymers. For example, transition metal oxides can cause auto-
corrosive effects of the reagents being used. Provide venting
catylic oxidation in polyethylene, which would in turn likely influence the
when using volatile reagents at elevated temperatures. Tightly
ESCR behavior of the polymer material. If some constituent of a metal jig
sealed containers are preferred for room temperature testing to
preferentially corrodes without causing apparent distortion or an apparent
minimize loss.
change in jig shape (for example, dezincification corrosion of yellow
brass, decarburization of carbon steel, or preferential etching of carbides),
5.5 Strain Jigs—Jigs are to be capable of supplying known
this may affect ESCR results due to the electrochemical effects of
amounts of strain to test specimens. These jigs are three point
dissolved metal ions and/or metal oxide formation. Thus it is critical to
flexural strain devices capable of affixing the test specimen to
monitor any effects on the jigs themselves.
the fixtures in such a way that intimate contact is maintained
5.6 Oven or Constant Temperature Bath, capable of main-
between the test specimen and the fixture along the entire
taining temperatures within 62°C of the specified test tem-
length of the gage area or specimen area to be tested. The
peratures.
clamping system should allow for thermal expansion of the
5.7 Testing Devices, for determining specific properties of
material when exposure to elevated temperature is specified.
specimens before and after submersion, such as color
Fig. 1 is a side view drawing of a typical strain jig used to
coordinates, strength, strain, and impact, conforming to the
obtain 1.0 % strain in a 3.2 mm (0.125 in.) thick test specimen.
requirements prescribed in the ASTM test methods for the
Shown in Fig. 1 is an equation that can be used to calculate
specific properties being determined.
strainfromknowndimensionsorback-calculatejigdimensions
for a desired specimen strain.
5.8 Laboratory Hood or other system adequate for vapor
ventilation.
NOTE 3—The jigs should be constructed such that they are able to
maintain a constant level of strain under the conditions of testing.
Significant distortion or changes in dimension of the jig during the
6. Reagents and Materials
chemical exposure testing will result in strain changes and should be
6.1 The following list of standard reagents is intended to be
avoided. Regarding the material of construction for the jigs, one should
recognize that dissolution of metal ions may alter the ESCR behavior of representative of the main categories of pure chemical
compounds, solutions, and common industrial products.
Chemicals used in these practices shall be of technical grade or
greater purity. All solutions shall be made with freshly pre-
pared distilled water. Specific concentrations are on a weight
percent or specific gravity basis.
6.2 Thefollowinglistofstandardreagentsisnotintendedto
preclude the use of other reagents pertinent to particular
chemical resistance requirements. It is intended to standardize
typical reagents, solution concentrations, and industrial prod-
ucts for general testing of the resistance of plastics to chemical
reagents.Itisnotintendedthatallthesereagentsbeusedinany
study referencing this standard. Material specifications in
which chemical resistance is indicated shall preferably be
based upon reagents and conditions selected from those listed
herein except by mutual agreement between the seller and the
purchaser and/or where other reagents are more appropriate for
the end use application.
6.3 Standard Reagents:
6.3.1 Acetic Acid (sp gr 1.05)—Glacial acetic acid.
6.3.2 Acetic Acid (5 %).
6.3.3 Acetone.
6.3.4 Ammonium Hydroxide (sp gr 0.90)—Concentrated
ammonium hydroxide (NH OH).
6.3.5 Ammonium Hydroxide (10 %).
6.3.6 Aniline.
6.3.7 Benzene.
6.3.8 Carbon Tetrachloride.
6.3.9 Chromic Acid (40 %).
6.3.10 Citric Acid (1 %).
6.3.11 Cottonseed Oil, edible grade.
6.3.12 Detergent Solution, Heavy Duty (0.025 %)—Dis-
solve 0.05 g of alkyl aryl sulfonate and 0.20 g of trisodium
phosphate in 1000 mL of water.
6.3.13 Diethyl Ether.
FIG. 1 Determination of Strain Level of Environmental Stress
Crack Resistance (ESCR) Fixtures (Practice B) 6.3.14 Dimethyl Formamide.
D543 − 21
TABLE 1 Military Specifications for Liquids Encountered in
6.3.15 Distilled Water, freshly prepared.
Military Service Environments
6.3.16 Ethyl Acetate.
Specification Title
6.3.17 Ethyl Alcohol (95 %)—Undenatured ethyl alcohol.
MIL-C-372 Cleaning Compound, Solvent (for Bore of Small Arms
6.3.18 Ethyl Alcohol (50 %).
and Automatic Aircraft Weapons)
6.3.19 Ethylene Dichloride.
MIL-G-5572 Gasoline, Aviation, Grades 80/87, 100/130, 115/145
MIL-H-5606 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, Aircraft, Missiles,
6.3.20 2-Ethylhexyl Sebacate.
and Ordinance
6.3.21 Heptane,commercialgrade,boilingrangefrom90to
MIL-T-5624 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Grades JP-4 and JP-5
100°C. MIL-H-6083 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, for Preservation and
Operation
6.3.22 Hydrochloric Acid (sp gr 1.19)—Concentrated hy-
MIL-L-7808 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engine, Synthetic
drochloric acid (HCl).
Base
MIL-A-11755 Antifreeze, Artic-Type
6.3.23 Hydrochloric Acid (10 %).
MIL-D-12468 Decontaminating Agent, STB
6.3.24 Hydrofluoric Acid (40 %).
MIL-L-14107 Lubricating Oil, Weapons, Low Temperature
6.3.25 Hydrogen Peroxide Solution, 28 % or USP 100
MIL-L-23699 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engines, Synthetic
Base
volume.
MIL-L-46000 Lubricant, Semi-Fluid (Automatic Weapons)
6.3.26 Hydrogen Peroxide Solution (3 % or USP 10 vol-
MIL-A-46153 Antifreeze, Ethylene Glycol, Inhibited, Heavy Duty,
ume). Single Package
MIL-F-46162 Fuel, Diesel, Referee Grade
6.3.27 Isooctane, 2,2,4-trimethyl pentane.
MIL-T-83133 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Kerosene Type, Grade JP-8
6.3.28 Kerosine—No. 2 fuel oil, Specification D396.
MIL-H-83282 Hydraulic Fluid, Fire Resistant, Synthetic Hydrocarbon
Base, Aircraft
6.3.29 Methyl Alcohol.
6.3.30 Mineral Oil, White, USP, sp gr 0.830 to 0.860;
Saybolt at 100°F: 125 to 135 s.
6.3.31 Nitric Acid (sp gr 1.42)—Concentrated nitric acid
(HNO ).
inTable1asapplicable.Itisnotintendedthatallthesereagents
6.3.32 Nitric Acid (40 %).
be used in any study referencing this standard.
6.3.33 Nitric Acid (10 %).
6.4.1 Army Regulation 70-71 establishes the requirement
6.3.34 Oleic Acid, cP.
for chemical contamination survivability of Army material
6.3.35 Olive Oil, edible grade.
intended to withstand the hazards of a chemical warfare (CW)
6.3.36 Phenol Solution (5 %).
environment. Decontaminating agents STB is included in
6.3.37 Soap Solution (1 %)—Dissolve dehydrated pure
Table1.Inaddition,selectedCWagents(orsuitablesimulants)
white soap flakes (dried1hat 105°C) in water.
are liquids against which it is appropriate to test the resistance
6.3.38 Sodium Carbonate Solution (20 %).
of certain plastics.
6.3.39 Sodium Carbonate Solution (2 %).
6.5 SAEJ1681containsalistofgasoline,alcoholanddiesel
6.3.40 Sodium Chloride Solution (10 %).
fuel surrogates intended to be representative of the fuels that
6.3.41 Sodium Hydroxide Solution (60 %).
are encountered in internal combustion engines in automobile
6.3.42 Sodium Hydroxide Solution (10 %).
applications. Plastics that are intended for use in such environ-
6.3.43 Sodium Hydroxide Solution (1 %).
ments shall be tested for chemical resistance to these fuel
6.3.44 Sodium Hypochlorite Solution, National Formulary,
surrogates as applicable.
(4 to 6 %).
6.6 Plastics that are intended for semi-durable use in a
6.3.45 Sulfuric Acid (sp gr 1.84)—Concentrated sulfuric
hospital environment encounter disinfectants and cleaning
acid.
agents, similar to those listed below. Material specifications in
6.3.46 Sulfuric Acid (30 %).
which chemical resistance is indicated shall preferably be
6.3.47 Sulfuric Acid (3 %).
based upon reagents and conditions selected from those listed
6.3.48 Toluene.
as applicable:
6.3.49 Transformer Oil, in accordance with the require-
6.6.1 Quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) 0.8 % with
ments of Specification D1040.
isopropyl alcohol 60% by weight.
6.3.50 Turpentine—Gum spirits or steam distilled wood
6.6.2 Quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) 2 % with
turpentine in accordance with Specification D13.
diethylene glycol butyl ether 10% by weight.
NOTE 4—Prior versions of this standard, D543-14 and earlier, listed
6.6.3 Bleach, represented by 2 % sodium hypochlorite,
recipes for preparing several of the standard reagents listed above, which
6.6.4 Hydrogen peroxide, 5 % with benzyl alcohol 5 % by
were not accurate. The use of commercially available mixed reagents is
weight,
encouraged; the recipes in the prior versions of this standard may be
evaluated as an information source when appropriate.
6.6.5 Hydrogen peroxide, 5 % with acetic acid 10 % by
weight,
6.4 Table 1 contains a list of military specifications for
6.6.6 Isopropyl alcohol,
various liquids intended to be representative of the main types
6.6.7 Diethylene glycol butyl ether, 10 %,
of liquids that are sometimes encountered in a military service
6.6.8 2-butoxyethanol, 5 %, and
environment. Plastics that are intended for use in such envi-
ronments shall be tested for chemical resistance to the liquids 6.6.9 Hexylene glycol, 30 %.
D543 − 21
6.7 This standard does not list all the possible chemical nominal surface area of the standard bar, having a thickness of
2 2
reagents that plastics encounter in use in all possible environ- 3.175 mm (0.125 in.), is 45.16 cm (7.0 in. ). Circular disk
ments and applications. It is not intended that all the above specimens 50.80 mm (2 in.) in diameter by the thickness of the
reagents be used in any study referencing this standard. material are permissible under mutual agreement between the
Specific reagents and exposure conditions may be determined seller and the purchaser. Permissible variations in thickness of
by mutual agreement between the seller and the purchaser both types of specimens are 60.18 mm (60.007 in.) for hot
and/or where other reagents are more appropriate for the end molded and 60.30 mm (60.012 in.) for cold molded or cast
use application. materi
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D543 − 20 D543 − 21
Standard Practices for
Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to Chemical
Reagents
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D543; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 These practices cover the evaluation of all plastic materials including cast, hot-molded, cold-molded, laminated resinous
products, and sheet materials for resistance to chemical reagents.
1.2 Three procedures are presented, two under practice A (Immersion Test), and one under practice B (Mechanical Stress and
Reagent Exposure under Standardized Conditions of Applied Strain). These practices include provisions for reporting changes in
weight, dimensions, appearance, color, strength, and other mechanical properties. Standard reagents are specified to establish
results on a comparable basis without precluding the use of other chemical reagents pertinent to specific chemical resistance
requirements. Provisions are made for various exposure times, stress conditions, and exposure to reagents at elevated temperatures.
The type of conditioning (immersion or wet patch) patch/wipe method) depends upon the end-use of the material. If the material
is used as a container or transfer line, immersion of the specimens is used. If the material will only see short exposures or will be
used in proximity and reagent will splash or spill on the material, the wet patch or wipe method of applying reagent to the material
is used.
NOTE 1—Practice B for evaluating environmental stress cracking resistance differs from Practice D7474, which seeks to measure residual stresses in
molded sulfone plastic parts with the use of calibrated chemical reagents. Practice B differs from Test Method D1693, which seeks to quantify the
susceptibility of ethylene plastics to environmental stress-cracking subjected to specific conditions, by measuring the proportion of specimens that crack
in a given time.
1.3 The effect of chemical reagents on properties shall be determined by making measurements on standard specimens for such
tests before and after immersion or stress, or both, if so tested.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazards statements are given in Section 7.
NOTE 2—ISO 175 and ISO 22088 Part 3 address the same subject matter as Practices A and B of this standard, but differ in technical content and the results
cannot be directly compared.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
These practices are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.50 on Durability of Plastics.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2020Dec. 1, 2021. Published March 2020December 2021. Originally approved in 1939. Last previous edition approved in 20142020 as
D543 - 14.D543 - 20. DOI: 10.1520/D0543-20.10.1520/D0543-21.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D543 − 21
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D13 Specification for Spirits of Turpentine
D396 Specification for Fuel Oils
D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
D1040 Specification for Uninhibited Mineral Insulating Oil for Use in Transformers and in Oil Circuit Breakers (Withdrawn
1980)
D1693 Test Method for Environmental Stress-Cracking of Ethylene Plastics
D2244 Practice for Calculation of Color Tolerances and Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured Color Coordinates
D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid Plastics Specimens
D7474 Practice for Determining Residual Stresses in Extruded or Molded Sulfone Plastic (SP) Parts by Immersion in Various
Chemical Reagents
2.2 Military Specifications:
MIL-A-11755 Antifreeze, Arctic-Type
MIL-A-46153 Antifreeze, Ethylene Glycol, Inhibited, Heavy Duty, Single Package
MIL-C-372 Cleaning Compound, Solvent (For Bore of Small Arms and Automatic Aircraft Weapons)
MIL-D-12468 Decontaminating Agent, STB
MIL-F-46162 Fuel, Diesel, Referee Grade
MIL-G-5572 Gasoline, Aviation, Grades 80/87, 100/130, 115/145
MIL-H-5606 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, Aircraft, Missiles, and Ordinance
MIL-H-6083 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, for Preservation and Operation
MIL-H-83282 Hydraulic Fluid, Fire Resistant, Synthetic Hydrocarbon Base, Aircraft
MIL-L-7808 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engine, Synthetic Base, NATO Code Number 0–148
MIL-L-14107 Lubricating Oil, Weapons, Low Temperature
MIL-L-23699 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engines, Synthetic Base
MIL-L-46000 Lubricant, Semi-Fluid (Automatic Weapons)
MIL-T-5624 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Grades JP-4 and JP-5
MIL-T-83133 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Kerosene Type, Grade JP-8
2.3 U.S. Army Regulation:
AR 70-71 Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Contamination Survivability of Army Material
2.4 ISO Standards:
ISO 175 Plastics—Determination of Resistance to Liquid Chemicals
ISO 22088 Part 3 Plastics—Determination of Resistance to Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC)—Bent Strip Method
2.5 SAE Standards:
SAE J1681 Gasoline, Alcohol and Diesel Fuel Surrogates for Materials Testing
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to these practices appear in Terminology D883.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 There are limitations of the results obtained from these practices. The choice of types and concentrations of reagents, duration
of immersion or stress, or both, level of stress, temperature of the test, and properties to be reported are necessarily arbitrary. The
specification of these conditions provides a basis for standardization and serves as a guide to investigators wishing to compare the
relative resistance of various plastics to chemical reagents.
4.2 Correlation of test results with the actual performance or serviceability of plastics is necessarily dependent upon the similarity
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4, Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098, http://dodssp.daps.dla.mil.
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Available from SAE International (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096, http://www.sae.org.
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between the testing and the end-use conditions. For applications involving continuous immersion, the data obtained in short-time
tests are of interest only in eliminating the most unsuitable materials or indicating a probable relative order of resistance to
chemical reagents.
4.3 Evaluation of plastics for special applications involving corrosive conditions shall be based upon the particular reagents and
concentrations to be encountered. Base the selection of test conditions on the manner and duration of contact with reagents, the
temperature of the system, applied stress, and other performance factors involved in the particular application.
4.4 The practices present general guidelines without covering specifics on all the varied applications of plastics, such as use in
automobiles and exposure to various automotive fluids, or use in hospital environments with exposure to disinfectants and cleaning
fluids. These practices can be extended to such applications with specifics on the study conducted noted in the report.
4.5 The use of appropriate controls is critical to evaluate the utility of the information generated by these practices. Particular
attention should be given to the variability in the data generated, especially for the baseline controls, and issues in data generation
reported to mitigate misuse of information.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Balance—Use a balance capable of weighing accurately to 0.05 % for a test specimen weighing 100 g or less, and to 0.1 %
for a test specimen weighing over 100 g. Assurance that the balance meets the performance requirements is provided by frequent
checks on adjustments of zero points and sensitivity and by periodic calibration for absolute accuracy, using standard masses.
5.2 Micrometers—Use a suitable micrometer for measuring the dimensions of test specimens similar to that described in Test
Method D5947. The micrometer should have an incremental discrimination of at least 0.025 mm (0.001 in.). For specimens 0.100
in. thick or less, the micrometer used shall have an incremental discrimination of at least 0.0025 mm (0.0001 in.). The micrometer
must be verified using gauge blocks traceable to the international system of units (SI) through a national metrology institute
(NMI) .
5.3 Room, or enclosed space capable of being maintained at the standard laboratory atmosphere of 23 6 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) and
50 6 10 % relative humidity in accordance with Practice D618, Procedure A.
5.4 Containers—Suitable containers for submerging specimens in chemical reagents. They must be resistant to the corrosive
effects of the reagents being used. Provide venting when using volatile reagents at elevated temperatures. Tightly sealed containers
are preferred for room temperature testing to minimize loss.
5.5 Strain Jigs—Jigs are to be capable of supplying known amounts of strain to test specimens. These jigs are three point flexural
strain devices and are to be made of stainless steel with stainless steel tabs at each end capable of affixing the test specimen to the
fixtures in such a way that intimate contact is maintained between the test specimen and the fixture along the entire length of the
test specimen. gage area or specimen area to be tested. The clamping system should allow for thermal expansion of the material
when exposure to elevated temperature is specified. Fig. 1 is a side view drawing of a typical strain jig used to obtain 1.0 % strain
in a 3.2 mm (0.125 in.) thick test specimen. Shown in Fig. 1 is an equation that can be used to calculate strain from known
dimensions or back-calculate jig dimensions for a desired specimen strain.
NOTE 3—The jigs should be constructed such that they are able to maintain a constant level of strain under the conditions of testing. Significant distortion
or changes in dimension of the jig during the chemical exposure testing will result in strain changes and should be avoided. Regarding the material of
construction for the jigs, one should recognize that dissolution of metal ions may alter the ESCR behavior of certain polymers. For example, transition
metal oxides can cause autocatylic oxidation in polyethylene, which would in turn likely influence the ESCR behavior of the polymer material. If some
constituent of a metal jig preferentially corrodes without causing apparent distortion or an apparent change in jig shape (for example, dezincification
corrosion of yellow brass, decarburization of carbon steel, or preferential etching of carbides), this may affect ESCR results due to the electrochemical
effects of dissolved metal ions and/or metal oxide formation. Thus it is critical to monitor any effects on the jigs themselves.
5.6 Oven or Constant Temperature Bath, capable of maintaining temperatures within 62°C of the specified test temperatures.
NMI includes such organizations as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
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FIG. 1 Determination of Strain Level of Environmental Stress Crack Resistance (ESCR) Fixtures (Practice B)
5.7 Testing Devices, for determining specific properties of specimens before and after submersion, such as color coordinates,
strength, strain, and impact, conforming to the requirements prescribed in the ASTM test methods for the specific properties being
determined.
5.8 Laboratory Hood or other system adequate for vapor ventilation.
6. Reagents and Materials
6.1 The following list of standard reagents is intended to be representative of the main categories of pure chemical compounds,
solutions, and common industrial products. Chemicals used in these practices shall be of technical grade or greater purity. All
solutions shall be made with freshly prepared distilled water. Specific concentrations are on a weight percent or specific gravity
basis.
6.2 The following list of standard reagents is not intended to preclude the use of other reagents pertinent to particular chemical
resistance requirements. It is intended to standardize typical reagents, solution concentrations, and industrial products for general
testing of the resistance of plastics to chemical reagents. It is not intended that all these reagents be used in any study referencing
this standard. Material specifications in which chemical resistance is indicated shall preferably be based upon reagents and
conditions selected from those listed herein except by mutual agreement between the seller and the purchaser and/or where other
reagents are more appropriate for the end use application.
6.3 Standard Reagents:
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6.3.1 Acetic Acid (sp gr 1.05)—Glacial acetic acid.
6.3.2 Acetic Acid (5 %).
6.3.3 Acetone.
6.3.4 Ammonium Hydroxide (sp gr 0.90)—Concentrated ammonium hydroxide (NH OH).
6.3.5 Ammonium Hydroxide (10 %).
6.3.6 Aniline.
6.3.7 Benzene.
6.3.8 Carbon Tetrachloride.
6.3.9 Chromic Acid (40 %).
6.3.10 Citric Acid (1 %).
6.3.11 Cottonseed Oil, edible grade.
6.3.12 Detergent Solution, Heavy Duty (0.025 %)—Dissolve 0.05 g of alkyl aryl sulfonate and 0.20 g of trisodium phosphate in
1000 mL of water.
6.3.13 Diethyl Ether.
6.3.14 Dimethyl Formamide.
6.3.15 Distilled Water, freshly prepared.
6.3.16 Ethyl Acetate.
6.3.17 Ethyl Alcohol (95 %)—Undenatured ethyl alcohol.
6.3.18 Ethyl Alcohol (50 %).
6.3.19 Ethylene Dichloride.
6.3.20 2-Ethylhexyl Sebacate.
6.3.21 Heptane, commercial grade, boiling range from 90 to 100°C.
6.3.22 Hydrochloric Acid (sp gr 1.19)—Concentrated hydrochloric acid (HCl).
6.3.23 Hydrochloric Acid (10 %).
6.3.24 Hydrofluoric Acid (40 %).
6.3.25 Hydrogen Peroxide Solution, 28 % or USP 100 volume.
6.3.26 Hydrogen Peroxide Solution (3 % or USP 10 volume).
6.3.27 Isooctane, 2,2,4-trimethyl pentane.
6.3.28 Kerosine—No. 2 fuel oil, Specification D396.
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6.3.29 Methyl Alcohol.
6.3.30 Mineral Oil, White, USP, sp gr 0.830 to 0.860; Saybolt at 100°F: 125 to 135 s.
6.3.31 Nitric Acid (sp gr 1.42)—Concentrated nitric acid (HNO ).
6.3.32 Nitric Acid (40 %).
6.3.33 Nitric Acid (10 %).
6.3.34 Oleic Acid, cP.
6.3.35 Olive Oil, edible grade.
6.3.36 Phenol Solution (5 %).
6.3.37 Soap Solution (1 %)—Dissolve dehydrated pure white soap flakes (dried 1 h at 105°C) in water.
6.3.38 Sodium Carbonate Solution (20 %).
6.3.39 Sodium Carbonate Solution (2 %).
6.3.40 Sodium Chloride Solution (10 %).
6.3.41 Sodium Hydroxide Solution (60 %).
6.3.42 Sodium Hydroxide Solution (10 %).
6.3.43 Sodium Hydroxide Solution (1 %).
6.3.44 Sodium Hypochlorite Solution, National Formulary, (4 to 6 %).
6.3.45 Sulfuric Acid (30 %). (sp gr 1.84)—Concentrated sulfuric acid.
6.3.46 Sulfuric Acid (30 %).
6.3.47 Sulfuric Acid (3 %).
6.3.48 Toluene.
6.3.49 Transformer Oil, in accordance with the requirements of Specification D1040.
6.3.50 Turpentine—Gum spirits or steam distilled wood turpentine in accordance with Specification D13.
NOTE 4—Prior versions of this standard, D543-14 and earlier, listed recipes for preparing several of the standard reagents listed above, which were not
accurate. The use of commercially available mixed reagents is encouraged; the recipes in the prior versions of this standard may be evaluated as an
information source when appropriate.
6.4 Table 1 contains a list of military specifications for various liquids intended to be representative of the main types of liquids
that are sometimes encountered in a military service environment. Plastics that are intended for use in such environments shall be
tested for chemical resistance to the liquids in Table 1 as applicable. It is not intended that all these reagents be used in any study
referencing this standard.
6.4.1 Army Regulation 70-71 establishes the requirement for chemical contamination survivability of Army material intended to
withstand the hazards of a chemical warfare (CW) environment. Decontaminating agents STB is included in Table 1. In addition,
selected CW agents (or suitable simulants) are liquids against which it is appropriate to test the resistance of certain plastics.
D543 − 21
TABLE 1 Military Specifications for Liquids Encountered in
Military Service Environments
Specification Title
MIL-C-372 Cleaning Compound, Solvent (for Bore of Small Arms
and Automatic Aircraft Weapons)
MIL-G-5572 Gasoline, Aviation, Grades 80/87, 100/130, 115/145
MIL-H-5606 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, Aircraft, Missiles,
and Ordinance
MIL-T-5624 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Grades JP-4 and JP-5
MIL-H-6083 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base, for Preservation and
Operation
MIL-L-7808 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engine, Synthetic
Base
MIL-A-11755 Antifreeze, Artic-Type
MIL-D-12468 Decontaminating Agent, STB
MIL-L-14107 Lubricating Oil, Weapons, Low Temperature
MIL-L-23699 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engines, Synthetic
Base
MIL-L-46000 Lubricant, Semi-Fluid (Automatic Weapons)
MIL-A-46153 Antifreeze, Ethylene Glycol, Inhibited, Heavy Duty,
Single Package
MIL-F-46162 Fuel, Diesel, Referee Grade
MIL-T-83133 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, Kerosene Type, Grade JP-8
MIL-H-83282 Hydraulic Fluid, Fire Resistant, Synthetic Hydrocarbon
Base, Aircraft
6.5 SAE J1681 contains a list of gasoline, alcohol and diesel fuel surrogates intended to be representative of the fuels that are
encountered in internal combustion engines in automobile applications. Plastics that are intended for use in such environments shall
be tested for chemical resistance to these fuel surrogates as applicable.
6.6 Plastics that are intended for semi-durable use in a hospital environment encounter disinfectants and cleaning agents, similar
to those listed below. Material specifications in which chemical resistance is indicated shall preferably be based upon reagents and
conditions selected from those listed as applicable:
6.6.1 Quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) 0.8 % with isopropyl alcohol 60% by weight.
6.6.2 Quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) 2 % with diethylene glycol butyl ether 10% by weight.
6.6.3 Bleach, represented by 2 % sodium hypochlorite,
6.6.4 Hydrogen peroxide, 5 % with benzyl alcohol 5 % by weight,
6.6.5 Hydrogen peroxide, 5 % with acetic acid 10 % by weight,
6.6.6 Isopropyl alcohol,
6.6.7 Diethylene glycol butyl ether, 10 %,
6.6.8 2-butoxyethanol, 5 %, and
6.6.9 Hexylene glycol, 30 %.
6.7 This standard does not list all the possible chemical reagents that plastics encounter in use. For example, one can foresee that
a plastic used in a hospital environment would be subjected to disinfectants and cleaning agents encountered. Relevant chemical
reagents used in the study to evaluate a plastic for an application should be reported.use in all possible environments and
applications. It is not intended that all the above reagents be used in any study referencing this standard. Specific reagents and
exposure conditions may be determined by mutual agreement between the seller and the purchaser and/or where other reagents are
more appropriate for the end use application.
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7. Hazards
7.1 Take suitable safety precautions to avoid personal contact, to eliminate toxic vapors, and to guard against explosion hazards
in accordance with the hazardous nature of the particular reagents being used.
8. Sampling
8.1 Sample in accordance with the ASTM test methods for the specific properties to be determined.
9. Test Specimens
9.1 The type and dimensions of test specimens to be used depend upon the form of the material and the tests to be performed (see
Note 45). At least three specimens shall be used for each material being tested, for each reagent involved, for each length of
cond
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