Filter media chemical compatibility chart
Use the chart as a first filter, not the final word. Concentration, temperature and contact time all change the answer, so send us the exact chemical before you order.
Compatibility at room temperature
✓ good · ~ limited, test first · ✗ not recommended
| Chemical group | PP | Nylon | Polyester | PTFE | PES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water, brine | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dilute acids | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Concentrated acids | ~ | ✗ | ~ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Alkalis (caustic) | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ~ |
| Alcohols | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ~ |
| Ketones (e.g. acetone) | ~ | ✓ | ~ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Aromatic solvents (toluene, xylene) | ✗ | ✓ | ~ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Chlorinated solvents | ✗ | ~ | ~ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Oils and fuels | ~ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ~ |
| Strong oxidisers (hypochlorite, peroxide) | ~ | ✗ | ~ | ✓ | ~ |
Temperature limits
| Media | Typical maximum in liquids |
|---|---|
| Polypropylene | About 80–90 °C |
| Nylon | About 120–150 °C |
| Polyester | About 130–150 °C |
| PTFE | Up to about 200 °C (often limited by the housing and seals) |
| PES | About 80–90 °C, and steam sterilisable in many designs |
Do not forget the seals and housing
A PTFE cartridge in an EPDM-sealed housing will still leak in toluene. Match the O-rings (EPDM, Viton, silicone, PTFE-encapsulated) and the housing material (PP, UPVC, SS 304/316, FRP) to the same chemical. See filter housings →
Not sure? Send us the chemical, concentration and temperature and we will recommend the media, seals and housing.
FAQs
Is polypropylene resistant to sulfuric acid?
PP handles dilute sulfuric acid well at room temperature. For concentrated or hot sulfuric acid, test first or use PTFE.
Which filter media is best for solvents?
PTFE is the safest choice for most solvents. Nylon works for many alcohols, ketones and hydrocarbons, but not for acids.