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Silicone sealant versus methanol

I have a problem about silicone sealants. Can I use a silicone sealant for the glass sight gauge on a tank? The tank will be filled with methanol [affil links](99.5%). So, will the methanol react with the silicone or contaminate the methanol? If not, how long will be silicone be capable to seal from leaking.

Thank you.

NAIMSAM AHMAD
engineer - KUALA LUMPUR, WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA
2004

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It is highly likely that silicone reacts with methanol. I used silicone seals for my sample vials, with the sample dissolved in methanol. On analysis by LC (APCI)MS, I discovered extreme contamination. Mass spectra with a regular repeating pattern (polymeric nature) which I suspect to be as a result of silicone extracted by methanol.

I will greatly appreciate to hear feedback from others.

Thank you.

Samuel Mugo
Memorial University - St John's, NL, Canada
2004