Chemical resistance refers to a material’s ability to withstand chemical attack or solvent reaction without degradation. It works through several mechanisms:
- Material Composition: The inherent properties of the material, such as the type of polymer in plastics or the alloy composition in metals, determine its resistance to certain chemicals.
- Surface Treatments and Coatings: Applying protective layers that prevent chemicals from reaching the base material.
- Cross-Linking in Polymers: In polymer materials, higher degrees of cross-linking can enhance resistance to chemical attack by making the structure more stable and less permeable.
- Barrier Properties: The ability of a material to act as a barrier to chemical diffusion, preventing or slowing the penetration of aggressive substances.