What are the chemical resistance charts for polyethylene in outdoor seating applications?

Polyethylene is a popular material for outdoor seating due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to various environmental factors. Understanding its chemical resistance is crucial for ensuring long-lasting performance in outdoor applications.

Polyethylene generally exhibits excellent resistance to water, alcohols, and dilute acids, making it suitable for outdoor furniture exposed to rain and cleaning agents. However, it has limited resistance to strong oxidizing acids, hydrocarbons, and certain solvents, which can cause swelling or degradation over time.

For outdoor seating, polyethylene's resistance to UV radiation is enhanced through additives, preventing brittleness and color fading. Common chemicals like household cleaners, pool chlorine, and mild detergents typically do not harm polyethylene, but prolonged exposure to gasoline, motor oil, or concentrated acids should be avoided.

A detailed chemical resistance chart for polyethylene helps manufacturers and consumers select the right materials for specific environments. By choosing high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), outdoor seating can achieve even greater chemical and impact resistance.

In summary, polyethylene offers reliable chemical resistance for most outdoor seating scenarios, but proper material selection and maintenance are key to maximizing its lifespan.