Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA, CCl3COOH, CAS 76-03-9) is a white, moisture-absorbing crystalline solid that melts near 135°F (57°C) and dissolves to form a strong, corrosive acid. It is used in laboratories to precipitate proteins and DNA, in medical chemical peels and wart removal, and as a reagent in organic synthesis. TCA solutions cause severe burns, so storage requires corrosion-resistant tanks and fittings. Use the compatibility ratings to choose the right tank resin, fittings and gaskets.
Polypropylene is the most economical tank material for Trichloroacetic Acid, rated Excellent. Nylon and PVDF (Kynar®) are also rated Good or better. Avoid aluminum hardware. Rated Fair (contact us before use): HDPE tanks, HDPE fittings, Viton® gaskets and 316 stainless steel hardware.
How Trichloroacetic Acid works with the plastics used to make our storage tanks.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | |
| Polypropylene | |
| Nylon | |
| PVDF (Kynar®) |
How Trichloroacetic Acid works with the plastics used for tank fittings.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | |
| PVC | |
| CPVC | |
| Polypropylene | |
| PVDF |
How Trichloroacetic Acid works with gasket and O-ring materials.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| Buna-N | |
| EPDM | |
| Viton® |
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