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 | Relative cost | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| HDPE $ | $$$$ | C Fair |
| Polypropylene $$ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
| Nylon $$$ | $$$$ | B Good |
| PVDF (Kynar®) $$$$ | $$$$ | B Good |
How Trichloroacetic Acid works with the plastics used for tank fittings.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | C Fair |
| PVC | B Good |
| CPVC | — No Data |
| Polypropylene | A Excellent |
| PVDF | B Good |
How Trichloroacetic Acid works with gasket and O-ring materials.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| Buna-N | — No Data |
| EPDM | B Good |
| Viton® | C Fair |
How Trichloroacetic Acid works with the metals used for fittings and bolts.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| 316 Stainless Steel | C Fair |
| Hastelloy | B Good |
| Titanium | — No Data |
| Aluminum | D Not Recommended |
Storing this chemical in PVDF?
PVDF tanks from 25 to 5,000 gallons with fittings installed. Confirm concentration and temperature with us before you order.
Send the chemical, concentration, temperature and size. We’ll match the tank and fittings and send a quote.