Polypropylene or PTFE fitting for gas sample bags

When performing gas sampling with Tedlar bags, Kynar bags, Multi-Foil bags or FEP bags, the choice of fitting material is of critical importance. The fitting is in direct contact with the gas sample and, depending on the chemical properties of the gas, may affect chemical stability, adsorption behaviour, and overall measurement reliability.

Tedlar sample bags, originally developed by Chemours, are widely used in environmental monitoring, industrial emission measurements, and laboratory analysis. These bags are commonly supplied with either polypropylene (PP) or PTFE fittings. The appropriate choice depends on the type of gas and the sampling conditions.

Material properties of PP and PTFE fittings

Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a lightweight and cost-effective polymer with good chemical resistance to many inert and non-reactive gases. PP fittings are generally suitable for routine gas sampling applications under dry conditions and with short contact times.

Limitations of PP:

  • Limited resistance to strongly oxidizing substances
  • Not recommended for halogens and acidic gases
  • Increased susceptibility to degradation in the presence of moisture and prolonged exposure

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)

PTFE is known for its exceptionally broad chemical resistance and near-inert behaviour. It is widely used in analytical and industrial environments where aggressive, reactive, or corrosive gases are involved.

Advantages of PTFE:

  • Excellent chemical resistance
  • Minimal interaction with the gas sample
  • Suitable for corrosive, oxidizing, and humid conditions

Gases for which PTFE fittings are recommended

1. Halogens and strongly oxidizing halogen compounds

These gases may attack polypropylene and lead to material degradation.

  • Chlorine (Cl₂)
  • Bromine (Br₂)
  • Iodine vapour
  • Chlorine dioxide (ClO₂)

2. Corrosive acidic gases, particularly in the presence of moisture

In combination with humidity, these gases can form strong acids.

  • Hydrogen chloride (HCl)
  • Hydrogen fluoride (HF)
  • Hydrogen bromide (HBr)

3. Strongly oxidizing gases

Polypropylene is generally not sufficiently resistant to these substances.

  • Ozone (O₃)
  • Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)
  • Dinitrogen tetroxide (N₂O₄)
  • Oxidizing NOx mixtures

4. Sulfur-containing reactive gases

Especially critical at higher concentrations, in humid conditions, or during extended storage.

  • Sulfur dioxide (SO₂)
  • Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)

Gases for which PP fittings are generally suitable

Under dry conditions, low to moderate concentrations, and short contact times, PP fittings are usually adequate for:

  • Nitrogen (N₂)
  • Oxygen (O₂)
  • Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
  • Argon (Ar)
  • Many non-reactive hydrocarbons

Practical guidelines for fitting selection

  • Inert, dry gases and short sampling duration → PP fitting generally sufficient
  • Oxidizing gases, halogens, or acidic gases → PTFE fitting recommended
  • Presence of moisture, extended storage, or elevated temperature → PTFE strongly preferred

Conclusion

The selection between polypropylene and PTFE fittings for Tedlar bags should be based on the chemical nature of the gas, the sampling conditions, and the required analytical reliability. For critical applications involving reactive or corrosive gases, PTFE provides the highest level of chemical safety and sample integrity. For standard applications involving inert gases, polypropylene offers a practical and economical solution.

If desired, this content can be condensed for use on a product page or converted into a clear PP versus PTFE compatibility table for direct reference alongside your Tedlar sampling bags.

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