How to read a chemical resistance rating

The short answerASP rates chemical resistance from 0 to 5: 5 means excellent, with no significant deterioration after long-term contact; 3 means unaffected after one month; 1 means unaffected after 24 hours; and 0 means not resistant. Ratings come from samples fully immersed at 20–25°C, which is far harsher than a real spill.

ASP has tested its epoxy and polyurethane flooring products against 260 chemicals, many at several concentrations and temperatures. The results are in the chemical resistance checker and the downloadable chemical resistance guides.

The rating scale

Discolouration is not classed as deterioration if the sample stays intact. Elevated temperatures will speed up chemical attack. In the tables, "Sat" means saturated and "Dil" means diluted.

How the tests are done

Samples 30 mm × 30 mm are cast at each product's prescribed thickness to replicate the finished floor, cured for 7 days and then fully submerged in the test solution at ambient temperature (20–25°C).

Why real floors usually do better

The ratings represent the most extreme case. In a test, the sample is completely immersed. On a real floor, a spill only touches the working surface, which greatly reduces its effect, and good housekeeping and prompt cleaning reduce it further.

Concentration and temperature matter

The same chemical can rate very differently depending on strength and heat. For example, ASP's solvent-free epoxies are rated 5 for 10% sulphuric acid at 20°C but 0 at 100°C. Always look up the concentration and temperature you will actually have.

When the rating is low

If your chemical rates 0 or 1 for a product, look at other systems; polyurethane and vinyl ester systems often perform better against acids and solvents. For full chemical containment, consider the vinyl ester or ASP-coatChem laminate systems, and speak to ASP's technical team.