Carbonic Acid (H2CO3) forms when carbon dioxide dissolves in water. It is a weak acid with a pH of about 3.7 to 4 in carbonated water, and it releases CO2 gas when pressure drops or temperature rises. It is found in carbonated beverages and soda water, and in water treatment for pH reduction and remineralization. Carbonated liquids in non-pressurized tanks lose their CO2 over time and need proper venting. Use the compatibility ratings to choose the right tank resin, fittings and gaskets.
Polypropylene is the most economical tank material for Carbonic Acid, rated Excellent. Nylon, PVDF (Kynar®) and HDPE are also rated Good or better. Avoid Buna-N gaskets.
How Carbonic Acid works with the plastics used to make our storage tanks.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | |
| Polypropylene | |
| Nylon | |
| PVDF (Kynar®) |
How Carbonic Acid works with the plastics used for tank fittings.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | |
| PVC | |
| CPVC | |
| Polypropylene | |
| PVDF |
How Carbonic Acid works with gasket and O-ring materials.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| Buna-N | |
| EPDM | |
| Viton® |
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