Chemical Compatibility Of The Paracell - Gamry Instruments ParaCell Operator's Manual

Chemical Compatibility of the ParaCell

The components in the ParaCell were selected to be sufficiently chemically inert to handle typical experimental
conditions. In normal use the materials in contact with the test solution are:
• the working electrode,
•
borosilicate glass (Pyrex
•
unfired glass frit,
•
PTFE,
•
polycarbonate
• Ace Glass's FETFE o-ring material
• spectroscopic grade graphite
Chemical resistance tables for most of these materials are available (try searching the Internet). One exception is
FETFE, which is a elastomer proprietary to Ace Glass, which consists of PTFE particles in a fluorinated rubber
base similar to Viton . According to Ace Glass, it offers slightly better chemical resistance than Viton
®
The ACE-Thred™ fittings supplied with the cell do not normally come in contact with the cell electrolyte. These
are nylon fittings, so you can use nylon's properties (which are generally available) as an indication of these
fitting's suitability for use in any specific chemical environment.
Caution:
suitable for use in some electrolytes (particularly non-aqueous media). If you need better chemical
resistance than that offered using the standard ACE-Thred components, Ace Glass (www.aceglass.com) can
provide replacement fittings made from PTFE and Kalrez
Contact Gamry Instruments, if you need help selecting the proper replacement fittings.
Gamry's Paracell was not designed for use in electrolytes that dissolve glass (extremely basic solutions or HF
containing solutions) or organic solvents which could damage the polycarbonate body. Be aware that some
biological molecules will "stick" to the cell body.
Caution:
tube are not suitable for use with extremely basic solutions or solutions containing hydrofluoric acid.
Chemical Compatibility of the ParaCell
® or equivalent),
The nylon bushings in the ACE-Thred fittings and the FETFE O-rings may not be
The glass components in the cell and the glass frits used in the reference bridge
® , which are extremely resistant to chemical attack.
5
.
®