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POF Chemical Resistance

Plastic Optical Fiber Chemical Resistance and Interactions

The following page is an overview of test data provided by Mitsubishi International Polymer Trade (MIP) on the effects of various chemicals on ESKA plastic optical fiber, as well as our own experiences. These effects range from degradation of the fiber’s jacket, to a complete failure to transmit light after exposure.

Interactions with Adhesives

PMMA fiber is damaged by chemicals containing high concentrations of amines, so instant adhesives made of cyanoacrylate (sold as “Super Glue”) should not be used. Non-solvent epoxy adhesives are highly recommended, but hardening components containing amines should also be avoided. Adhesive manufacturers use variations of standard recipes, so it is best to test small quantities of fiber and adhesive to ensure their compatibility.

Some adhesives known to be compatible with POF are:

  • Epoxy Technology EPO-TEK310
  • TRA-Con F113 SC
  • MasterBond EP21-7P
  • Loctite EA E-20HP
  • 3M DP420 Black

Symptoms of incompatible adhesives include cracking, swelling, or “melting” of either the fiber’s jacket or POF core.

Interactions with Common Oils and Solvents

The following table lists the effects that common oils and solvents have on bare and jacketed fiber. For each test, a section of fiber was submerged in the chemical agent for at least 6 hours.

Chemical Agent

Item

Fiber GK-40

Cable GH-4001

Oil (ASTM Reference Oil #3) (50º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

Swelling

Brake Fluid (SAE J1703) (50º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

FAIL (2 hr)

Cracking

OK

Swelling

Transmission Oil (GM 6137-M) (50º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

Swelling

Antifreeze (GM 1825-M) (50º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

OK

Gasoline (ASTM Reference Fuel A) (25º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

Swelling

Gasoline (ASTM Reference Fuel C) (25º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

FAIL (2 hr)

Cracking

FAIL (4 hr)

Swelling

Windshield Washer Fluid (1:1 MeOh) (25º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

OK

5% NaCO Solution (25º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

OK

Diesel #2 (25º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

Swelling

 460 g/L H SO Solution (25º C)

Optical transmission

Visual inspection

OK

OK

OK

OK

 Carburetor Cleaner (25º C)  Optical transmission

Visual inspection

FAIL (2 hr)

Cracking

FAIL (4 hr)

Swelling

Attenuation Change vs. Exposure Time

The following graphics show the change in signal attenuation versus exposure time.

GH4001 Chemical Resistance to Water
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to Water
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to H2SO4
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to H2SO4
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to NaOH
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to NaOH
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to Insulating Oil
GH4001 Chemical Resistance to Insulating Oil

This information is presented as a guide for product selection. It is subject to change without notice, and should not be regarded as a representation, warranty, or guarantee with regard to the quality, characteristics or use of this product.

Filed Under: FiberCast Tagged With: Advanced POF Topics, Applications, Engineering, Why Choose POF

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FiberFin, Inc.
9925 State Route 47 Unit A
Yorkville, Illinois 60560
United States of America

+1 (630) 553-6924

Product support: info@fiberfin.com
Sales inquiries: sales@fiberfin.com

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